Eye & Face Protection Standards
Eye protection is tested and certified to EN 16321 standards. This standard is separated into three main classes:
- EN 16321-1 General requirements
- EN 16321-2 Additional requirements for welding and related hazards
- EN 16321-3 Additional requirements for mesh protectors
Impact Levels
When choosing eye protection it is important to take into consideration the impact level.
- Impact level C is tested to 45m/s and is mandatory for spectacles.
- Impact level D is tested to 80m/s and is mandatory for goggles.
- Impact level E is tested to 120m/s and is mandatory for face shields.
- Impact level HM is tested to high mass.
If an impact level marking is followed by the letter “T”, it has been tested to these impacts under extreme temperatures.
Lens Tints
Safety eyewear is available in a range of lens tints to increase protection and clarity when working in various environments. The 5 most common tints are clear, amber, grey, polarised and blue mirror.
- Clear lenses are the most common tint, offering 100% consistent optical clarity and giving wearers as close to natural vision as possible.
- Amber lenses brighten and enhance contrast for poorly lit working conditions. Be aware that amber lenses can cause some colour distortion.
- Grey lenses are used to dim brightness and sun glare without colour distortion, perfect for outdoor working environments.
- Polarised lenses reduce reflected glare from surfaces such as metal, glass and water.
- Blue mirror lenses reduce glare and enhance contrast in variable lighting, making them most suitable for dynamic working environments.
Lens Coatings
Safety eyewear performance goes beyond the tint; multiple coatings such as anti-fog and anti-scratch are available to further enhance lenses and reduce the wearer’s eye strain.
A combination of the correct tint, coating, size and shape all work together to provide the best results for your safety.
Prescription Safety Eyewear
At Arden Winch we also proudly offer an extensive range of prescription eye protection, working closely with big brands such as Riley and Bollé.
If you have staff requiring prescription safety eyewear, our trained team can arrange for a mobile optician’s van to visit your site, giving your employees the unique chance to try on frames, have their face measured, have their prescription checked and place their order. It is easy, time effective, stress free and convenient.