Sunglass Filter Transmission and Its Operational Effect in Solar Protection for Civilian Pilots

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Aviation Safety
• Optics

Background:

• Ocular exposure to ultraviolet radiation (UVR) is a known risk.
• Pilots may exceed international UVR exposure limits without eye protection.
• Altitude increases UVR and blue light hazards.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the effectiveness of pilot sunglasses in reducing UVR and blue light exposure during flight.
• To evaluate compliance of sunglasses with international standards.

Main Methods:

• Measured transmittance of UVR and blue light for 38 pilot sunglasses (20 used, 18 new).
• Compared measurements against international standards for eye protection.

Main Results:

• All tested nonprescription sunglasses met international standards for UVR protection.
• Sunglasses sufficiently attenuated blue light exposure at altitude.
• Used sunglasses with scratches were marginally less effective.
• One pair of prescription sunglasses had insufficient UVR blocking.

Conclusions:

• While most sunglasses meet standards, minimal compliance may lead to excess UVR exposure for pilots.
• A transmittance limit of <10% at 380 nm is recommended for enhanced UVR protection.