Written by Jake Oakey on January 16, 2023

Why are safety glasses important?


Safety glasses are an important piece of personal protective equipment (PPE) that are worn to protect the eyes from potential hazards in the workplace. These hazards can include flying debris, chemical splashes, and harmful UV rays. Wearing safety glasses can prevent a wide range of injuries, from minor irritations and temporary vision loss to permanent blindness.

One of the main reasons why safety glasses are so important is that the eyes are extremely vulnerable to injury. The delicate tissues of the eyes are easily damaged by flying debris, chemicals, and other hazards. Even a small piece of debris can cause serious damage, such as scratches on the cornea or even a punctured eye. Safety glasses provide a barrier that protects the eyes from these hazards, reducing the risk of injury.

Another important reason to wear safety glasses is to protect against UV rays. The sun emits UV rays that can cause serious damage to the eyes over time, including cataracts and age related macular degeneration. Safety glasses with UV protective lenses can block these harmful rays, reducing the risk of eye damage.

Safety glasses are also important for preventing temporary vision loss. When the eyes are exposed to bright light or intense glare, the pupils can constrict, making it difficult to see. Safety glasses with special coatings or tints such as a smoke lens can reduce glare and improve visibility, making it easier to work in bright or sunny conditions.

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Bolle Rush+ Safety Glasses


Safety glasses are often mandatory in certain workplaces, such as construction sites and manufacturing facilities. Employers are responsible for providing their employees with the appropriate PPE, including safety glasses. However, even if safety glasses are not required by law, it is still a good idea to wear them whenever there is a risk of eye injury.

In summary, safety glasses are an important piece of PPE that can prevent a wide range of injuries, from minor irritations to permanent blindness. They protect the eyes from flying debris, chemicals, and harmful UV rays, and improve visibility in bright or sunny conditions. Whether it is mandatory or not, wearing safety glasses is a smart choice for anyone who wants to keep their eyes safe and healthy.

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