What To Look For
Safety goggles provide a measure of protection to the eye in dangerous situations such as construction work, material handling and metal working. The best material for the safety goggles varies depending on the user's needs. Glass safety glasses are scratch and chemical resistant but heavy. Plastic safety goggles protect against sparks from welding and other sources but scratches easily. Polycarbonate lenses protect against sparks and is the most impact resistant but scratches easily. For most situations, the polycarbonate lenses prevent damage to the eye better than glass or plastic lenses. Look for safety goggles that fit securely and comfortably to the face and provide protection from the side as well as the front. Select a safety goggle that can be disinfected and cleaned. According to the website Galt Tech, the top brands include Pyramex, Neiko, Uvex and DeWalt. Look for safety goggles meeting or exceeding the Z-87 standards of the American National Standards Institute.
Common Pitfalls
Avoid safety goggles that fit poorly or are uncomfortable. If the goggles aren't comfortable, they won't be worn. Avoid safety goggles without ventilation. This causes an accumulation of moisture behind the goggles, increasing fogging of the goggles. Ventilation systems for safety goggles used in situations where chemicals are handled often make use of indirect ventilation to prevent chemical spills from getting behind the goggles. Avoid safety goggles not carrying the ANSI standards stamp on the bow.
Where To Buy
Safety goggles are available at hardware stores, optical shops, home improvement and discount stores and online. In some industries, safety goggles are provided by employers or obtained at a discount from sources approved by the employer. Opticians can fit prescription lenses into some models of safety goggles.
Cost
There is a wide range of prices for safety goggles. According to the online retailer Amazon, safety goggles ranged from about $6 to about $30 in September 2010. Low-end safety goggles often included elastic straps rather than bows. Safety goggles meeting ANSI Z-87 specifications were available in most of the price ranges. Cost of safety glasses with prescription lenses will vary depending on the prescription and will likely exceed the price of the top of the line non-prescription safety goggles.
