Grinding, cutting, chipping and overhead work send particles flying. Eye protection is cheap, but only works if it fits the task and the crew actually wears it.
In this article
Hazards
Flying particles, dust, chemical splashes and bright light from welding.
Safety glasses
Safety-rated glasses with side protection are the minimum for most tasks.
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Goggles
For dust and splashes, goggles seal better than glasses.
Face shields
Grinding and cutting call for a face shield over safety glasses, not instead of them.
Prescription eyewear
Offer prescription safety glasses or over-the-glasses models. Workers with glasses often skip protection.
Fogging and comfort
Anti-fog lenses and comfortable fit keep glasses on faces.
Enforcement
Supervisors set the example. One exception becomes the rule.
Common mistakes
Scratched lenses, glasses on the hard hat and face shields used without glasses.
Stock enough pairs
Keep spares at the gate and in each gang box. Workers skip protection when they cannot find it.
Talk about near misses
A scratched lens or a chip that hit the glasses is a near miss worth sharing in the toolbox talk.
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Frequently asked questions
Are regular glasses enough on the jobsite?
Regular prescription glasses are not safety eyewear. Workers need safety-rated glasses, prescription safety glasses or protection designed to be worn over their glasses.