Industrial safety glasses -- an update

A review is presented of recent significant developments in industrial protective eyewear. Many of these developments apply to everyday practice. The new plastic protective, prescription, and plano lenses are discussed, and their merits presented. Needs for protection in the ultraviolet and near-infrared portions of the electromagnetic spectrum are described. It is shown that such spectral protection is now available in plastic lenses, but care must be taken to insure that the plastic has the required ultraviolet and near-infrared absorption. Eye protection standards have been improved. Specific changes in the standards are discussed.