Eye & Face Protection

FAQs

• Where can I buy face protection?

  Always buy face protection from reputable suppliers that sell products meeting the UK EN 166 safety standard.

  Luckily, you’re in the right place!

  You can find eye and face protection that meets all relevant standards right here at SMI. 

• What type of eye protection must be worn?

  The type of eye protection you need to wear will depend on what kind of job you’re working on – and, in particular, what you’re protecting against.

  Here’s a rough guide:

  • Safety spectacles: Good for industries that need low-impact protection (but not from smaller particles that can travel around the spectacles).
  • Over spectacles: An alternative to safety spectacles for workers who wear prescription glasses and need protection that fits over the top.
  • Safety goggles: Good for industries that need complete eye protection. For instance, in areas with dust and airborne debris.
  • Face shields: Used in addition to safety glasses or goggles by industries that need protection from heat, chemicals, or impact, such as construction and welding.
• What are the PPE standards for eye protection?

  All PPE, including eye protection, has to be tested to prove that it can meet the relevant protective standards.

  There are lots of different standards for eye protection depending on its purpose. 

  However, all protective eyewear that’s intended for use in the workplace has to meet the core European standard, EN 166:2001.

• What provides the best eye and face protection?

  Combining a face shield and safety goggles will usually provide the most thorough level of eye and face protection.

  However, the best eye and face protection for your project will depend on the kind of work involved.
  

  A health and safety risk assessment will show you which PPE you need for your workplace.

• Are safety glasses and safety goggles the same thing?

  No, safety glasses and safety goggles aren’t the same thing.

  Safety glasses (also known as safety spectacles) look like regular glasses and have side arms that slide over your ears.

  Meanwhile, safety goggles create a tighter seal around your face and are secured with a strap that goes behind your head.

  In this way, safety goggles provide a higher level of protection.