Ensuring scientists and lab personnel have proper protective eyewear is crucial when working with hazardous materials and experiments. But with options like prescription safety goggles and standard lab goggles, how do you choose?
In this comprehensive guide from safety gear experts Yoo Shing, we'll cover the key differences, features and applications of prescription and non-prescription safety goggles designed specifically for laboratory use.
Why Lab Goggles Are Essential
First, let's review why wearing appropriate goggles is so important in laboratories:
Chemical splashes Even minor spills in the eyes can cause blindness or burns. Goggles provide a protective seal.
Biological matter Viruses, bacteria, and tissues used in labs can infect eyes if exposed.
Projectiles Pressurized chemicals and experiments like crystallization can eject particles at high speeds.
Heat Bunsen burners, ovens, and heated tools can burn eyes.
Lasers Concentrated light from lasers instantly damages eyes if unprotected.
Fumes Toxic vapors from chemicals irritate and harm eyes over time if not shielded.
With these hazards present, all lab personnel must wear properly rated safety goggles at all times when experiments are underway.
Comparing Prescription and Standard Lab Goggles
While both provide essential protection, there are some key differences between prescription and regular lab goggles:
Prescription Safety Goggles
Lenses fit within the goggle frames
Allow wearing goggles over prescription glasses
Require an eye exam and custom lenses
More expensive but vision correcting
Standard Lab Goggles
One-size-fits-all design
Fits easily over prescription glasses
Cheaper and readily available
Doesn't correct vision or customize fit
When to Use Each Type:
Prescription Needed for workers who must wear corrective lenses at all times
Standard goggles Appropriate for most lab personnel without vision issues
Choosing the Best Lab Eyewear
Here are the main factors scientists and safety managers should look for:
Meets ANSI Z87+ Verify impact rating for US or EN166 rating in Europe
Lens material Polycarbonate or acetate offer shatter and chemical resistance
Coverage Should completely seal around eyes to prevent splashes entering
Comfort Cushioned foam prevents irritation during extended wear
Fog resistance Improves visibility during delicate procedures
Prescription insert Allows vision correction without contacts
The Right Goggles for Lab Distributors
To equip labs properly, supply:
ANSI and EN166 rated non-prescription lab goggles
Prescription safety goggles with insert options
Clear and tinted lenses for flexibility
Child sizes for student labs
Yoo Shing's trusted goggles engineered for scientific use
Custom branding and prescription services
Rely on Yoo Shing's Lab Eyewear Expertise
Yoo Shing manufactures premium safety goggles and eyewear designed specifically for laboratory environments. Our goggles meet or exceed ANSI Z87+ and EN 166 standards to protect against hazards.
We utilize impact-resistant polycarbonate and chemical-resistant acetate lenses in a variety of frames and prescription options. Yoo Shing also provides custom branding and lens insert services. Equip your lab with the best vision protection available!
Gear Up for Safety
Don't take chances with preventable eye injuries in laboratories and other scientific settings. Provide personnel with properly rated prescription or standard goggles matched to the experiments and chemicals they handle. Use this guide to select comfortable safety eyewear customized for your lab environment and personnel vision needs.
