Department of Labor Seal photos representing the workforce - digital imagery© copyright 2001 photodisc, inc.  
 
Department of Labor Seal www.osha.gov [skip navigational links]     Advanced Search | A-Z Index
Eye and Face eTool
Scope    FAQ's    Glossary    Additional References    Viewing/Printing Instructions    Credits 
Eye and Face eTool
Eye and Face eTool Home PPE Selection OSHA Requirements Eye and Face eTool
PPE PPE

PPE Selection
Impact Impact Hazards
- Spectacles
- Goggles
- Face Shields
Heat
Chemicals
Dust
Optical Radiation



Eye and Face eTool
Impact Hazards: Safety Goggles
Goggle Protection Safety goggles are intended to shield the wearer's eyes from impact hazards such as flying fragments, objects, large chips, and particles. Goggles fit the face immediately surrounding the eyes and form a protective seal around the eyes. This prevents objects from entering under or around the goggles. 

Safety goggles may incorporate prescription lenses mounted behind protective lenses for individuals requiring vision correction. Take time to consider specific lens, frame, and ventilation options when selecting safety goggles. 
Lenses
Safety goggles lenses are designed and tested to resist moderate impact.
  • Clear, Removable Lenses
    Fig. 1:
    Clear, Removable Lenses
    Clear lenses:

    • Are available with removable lenses
    • May incorporate prescription lenses
    • Do not provide special protection against optical radiation
Top of Page


Frames
Safety goggle frames must be properly fitted to the worker's face to form a protective seal around the eyes. Poorly fitted goggles will not offer the necessary protection.
  • Eye Cup Goggles
    Fig. 2: Eye Cup Goggles
    Eyecup safety goggles:

    • Cover the eye sockets completely
    • Are available with direct or indirect ventilation
    • May be rigid or flexible
  • Cover Goggles
    Fig. 3: Cover Goggles
    Cover safety goggles:

    • May be worn over corrective spectacles without disturbing the adjustment of the spectacles
    • Are available in direct, indirect, or non-ventilated types
    • May be rigid or flexible
Top of Page


Ventilation
Ventilated goggles allow air circulation while providing protection against airborne particles, dust, liquids, or light.
  • Direct-ventilated goggles
    Fig. 4:
    Direct-ventilated Goggles
    Direct ventilation:

    • Resist direct passage of large particles into the goggle
    • Prevent fogging by allowing air circulation



  • Indirect-ventilated goggles
    Fig. 5:
    Indirect-ventilated Goggles
    Indirect ventilation:

    • Prevent fogging by allowing air circulation
    • Protect against liquid or chemical splash entry



  • Non-ventilated Goggles
    Fig. 6:
    Non-ventilated goggles
    Non-ventilated goggles:

    • Do not allow the passage of air into the goggle
    • Prevent splash entry
    • May fog and require frequent lens cleaning
Top of Page

| Home | Scope | FAQs | Glossary | Additional References |
| Viewing/Printing Instructions | Credits | PPE Selection | OSHA Requirements |




Back to TopBack to Top www.osha.gov www.dol.gov
Contact Us | Freedom of Information Act | Customer Survey
Privacy and Security Statement | Disclaimers
Occupational Safety & Health Administration
200 Constitution Avenue, NW
Washington, DC 20210