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What Is The Difference Between Z87.1 And Z87-2?

You are blessed to have access to a wide array of qualities and features while shopping for a new set of safety glasses. You could frequently notice several kinds of markings on safety glasses when searching for them. For example, you can come across a "Z87" designation whether purchasing in person or online. This is more than just ornamentation. Rather, Z87 indicates that these specific safety glasses have met the highest criteria of safety. It is useful to know what the Z87 mark represents and what it is. Making the best choice possible when buying the next set of prescription safety glasses will result from doing this. What Z87 signifies will be explained in this post.

The Z87 Standard and ANSI

To fully comprehend Z87, it is necessary to step back. Safety glasses are a vital piece of equipment whether employed or engaging in difficult environments. Regardless of whether you are in a dangerous area, neglecting to shield your eyes might result in blindness and other significant eye disorders. Sports safety glasses are made to prevent harm to your eyes. Even though there are fashionable safety glasses, protecting your eyes should always come first in the most trying circumstances. However, not every pair of safety glasses is created equal.

Professionals in eyewear recognized several decades ago that there were discrepancies in the claims made about safety glasses' level of safety. They decided on voluntary requirements that would assess safety glasses objectively to solve this issue. A nonprofit, private company by the name of the American National Standards Institute ("ANSI") is responsible for establishing these standards. Respected by most people are the ANSI standards. Furthermore, to ascertain if companies are adhering to OSHA regulations at work, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration uses ANSI standards.

Different Z87 Marks

ANSI does not establish a single worldwide standard for safety eyewear, to be clear. There exist multiple standards that exhibit modest variations in aspects like impact resistance. Z87 is among the ANSI safety glasses standards. It notifies you that the safety specs have passed several demanding inspections. This tests the robustness and resistance to impacts of your safety eyewear. Technically, the Z87.1 and Z87-2 standards are what we're talking about here.

It explains face and eye protection in the workplace and classroom. Three updates to the Z87.1 standard have been made since 2003 (in 2010, 2015, and 2020). The changes prioritized product performance and made an effort to bring these ANSI standards into line with other worldwide eyeglasses standards.

The Z87.1 standard specifies testing requirements for two performance levels of frames and lenses: basic and high impact. Every pair of polarized sports glasses that satisfies Z87.1 requirements has to go through rigorous testing. A few of the tests involve corrosion and flammability resistance, as well as dealing with non-ionizing light and chemicals.

On the other hand, basic impact offers you a typical degree of eye protection. Your glasses satisfy an additional round of tests because of the high impact. Stated differently, indicating their resilience and efficiency under pressure. Therefore, ANSI Z87.1 certification indicates that safety glasses have completed a "high mass" test.

A 500-gram loaded weight is dropped against the safety glasses' lenses from five feet away during this test. The objective is to see if the external force causes the lens or spectacles to break or fracture.

In the end, though, let's go back to the Z87 symbol seen on safety glasses. The inner arm of the Z87-certified safety glasses bears the designation "Z87." This indicates that the Z87.1 standard was met by these safety glasses.

On the other hand, if Z87 has a plus sign next to it, it indicates that your safety eyewear is impact-rated. Impact-rated safety glasses need to pass an additional set of safety tests, as was previously mentioned. This increases your trust that in hazardous situations, your protective glasses will shield your eyes.

Z87 / Z87.1

Basic impact rating-certified safety eyewear,  Z87.1 conforming eye protection is designated with Z87 

Z87+

Safety glasses with a high impact rating that is certified

Z87-2

Basic impact rating certified prescription safety eyewear

Z87-2+

High-impact rating certified prescription safety glasses

Suggested to read” What Does ANSI Z87.1 Certified Mean?”

ANSI/ISEA Z87.1-2020 Modifications

By being up to date, the standard for face and eye protection successfully protects workers. This standard had a significant change in 2010, and this trend was maintained in the 2015 revision, which addressed rising technology-related concerns. This standard, which maintains its emphasis on product functionality and harmonizes with international standards, has to handle several advances in product design over the last five years. As a result, the following modifications were made to ANSI/ISEA Z87.1-2020 from the 2015 version:

Long-standing specifications were updated with criteria and required markings for protectors with relaxed optics. This is in light of the realization that some occupational responsibilities and applications—such as those performed by first responders, firefighters, or military personnel—might not necessitate the strict optical standards that have historically been enforced.

Since fogging can make it difficult for a wearer to do their job safely, testing, efficiency, and marking standards for safety lenses with anti-fog qualities were included. The amount allotted for transfers was modified. Shades of welding filters were enlarged. To ensure consistency in testing, dark-state tolerances for automated darkening welding filters were added, as well as information on the minimum coverage area of the designated head form.

Why is Z87 important?

There are multiple causes.

First off, you may feel secure knowing that your safety glasses can withstand extreme strain according to the ANSI Z87.1 standard. Rather than stressing over whether your eye protection would withstand difficult circumstances.

Besides this assurance, you can encounter a scenario where your company requires that your eyewear be Z87-approved. OSHA requirements mandate that your company provide safety eyewear if, for example, your occupation demands you to work in areas with flying dirt or debris.

These safety glasses have to comply with specific ANSI standards as stated in OSHA laws; if they don't, your firm can face penalties from OSHA. Sparks are being thrown by an angle grinder worker in a factory. However, OSHA standards do not mandate that your employer buy new prescription safety glasses for staff members. Your company is required to provide you with safety goggles if you regularly wear prescription glasses.

However, you ought to be allowed to buy and use your own Rx safety glasses, so long as they meet the applicable ANSI standard. Before you buy your new prescription safety glasses, make sure they meet the requirements. Your employer may require that your eyewear be Z87 certified. Be aware that OSHA may occasionally mandate that your company provide safety eyewear.

Which Risks Is ANSI Z87.1 Designed to Test Against?

Goggles and safety PPE glasses certified by ANSI Z87.1 go through extensive testing to guarantee their efficacy. These are a few important tests:

Impact Resistance

One of the main tests is impacting eyeglasses at high speeds with small objects to replicate flying fragments, tools, or particles found in construction, industrial, or laboratory environments. Making sure the frames and lenses can sustain these pressures without breaking or moving is the aim. Because polycarbonate is a lighter and thinner material than other types of lenses, it is known as an impact-resistant lens. Z87+ eyewear is put through more rigorous testing to guarantee better levels of protection. The three main exams for ANSI z87+ accreditation are as follows:

High Mass Impact 

In this test, a 500-gram weight is dropped against the lenses of PPE glasses from an altitude of 50 inches to see how durable they are. It resembles what would happen if a heavy item—like a tool—accidentally fell on the eyeglasses. The spectacles must not break, crack, or make the lenses fall out to pass.

High-Velocity Impact 

This test measures how well eyewear protects against quickly moving particles by shooting a ¼-inch steel ball at 102 mph for safety glasses and 170 mph for safety goggles. The test simulates situations in which workers may encounter metal chips, flying pieces, or other projectiles traveling at high speeds. Effective eyewear needs to maintain the lens's position and integrity.

Penetration Test (for lenses Only)

This test, which focuses on the lens's resistance to sharp item penetration, entails dropping a needle from a minimum height of inches, with a certain total weight of 44.2g. In situations when metal shards, splinters, or pieces of glass are available, the test attempts to confirm the lens's resistance to being pierced by sharp, pointed items.

Things to Consider When Selecting Safety Glasses

Lens Materials 

High impact resistance, anti-scratch, and UV protection are just a few advantages of materials like polycarbonate and triacetate. The particular hazardous materials used in the workplace must be considered while selecting the appropriate material.

Lens coatings 

Coatings that increase durability and visibility include anti-fog and anti-scratch. Anti-fog coatings are especially helpful in humid or temperature-changing surroundings, while light anti-scratch treatments prolong the glasses' lifespan in challenging circumstances.

Appropriate Fit 

Getting a proper fit is essential for both comfort and effective protection. To ensure that your glasses fit your unique face shape and size properly, try on many models to minimize gaps, prevent slippage, and lower your risk of damage.

Anti-Fog Coating 

In addition, you should think about selecting safety glasses with an anti-fog layer if you operate in conditions with excessive moisture or sudden temperature swings. This coating keeps the lenses from foggy, guaranteeing sharp vision and minimizing the need for frequent lens cleaning.

UV Protection 

UV protection is necessary indoors as well as outdoors because prolonged exposure to UV radiation can harm the eyes. Seek out sunglasses that provide 99–100% ultraviolet (UV) protection.

Durability 

Protective eyewear must be durable, particularly if you want to use it in a hazardous or rough area. The lenses should not scratch even after extended usage, and the frames must be resistant to chemicals and impact.

Top Selling ANSI Z87 Products

Our SEG takes great pride in selecting the finest ANSI Z87-2 eye protection that satisfies both high standards for style and strict safety regulations. The ANSI Z87 and Z87-2 protective glasses that we think are the best are also available for exploration below.

WileyX Boss

Shatterproof Selenite and Polycarbonate lenses that satisfy ANSI Z87.1 mass impact specifications are features of the Wiley X Boss. The detachable facial chamber of the glasses shields your eyes from dirt, grime, and stray light. You can't make any mistake with Wiley X's Boss glasses if you're searching for a fashionable style in a cozy frame.

Pentax A2500

The Pentax A2500 combines state-of-the-art aesthetics and a high-performance design. The ANSI Z87.1 mass impact requirement is met by the glasses. Because of their wrap-around style, the glasses provide optimal protection and are comfortable enough to wear all day. There is complete UV protection offered by the glasses. More grip is made possible by the adjustable strap.

GRXS13

Scratch- and impact-resistant polycarbonate lenses are included with the GRXS 13. For all-day comfort, the TRNZZ frame has adjustable nose pads and double-injected temples. It complies with ANSI Z87.2 high safety standards and includes TRF 11280 side shields to guard your eyes from dust, debris, and other particles. The adjustable inner brow gasket on these glasses allows them to fit a variety of facial shapes. These glasses will shield you from UV radiation. This rectangular frame is a great option for athletes and industrial workers alike.

Top Seller for ANSI Z87 Eye Protection

By all means, selecting the appropriate safety eyewear is not simple. That could take a lot of time and money, depending on the requirements of the work. But if you are familiar with all the symbols for the various standards, it will be much easier for you to choose a suitable pair of safety glasses.

Put another way, the Z87 standard offers a dispassionate assessment of safety goggles that you are thinking about buying. Verify that any safety eyewear you are considering is Z87 certified.

We at SEG are pleased to provide a large selection of safety glasses, including prescription safety glasses and this is the cheapest place to buy z87 safety prescription glasses. We only sell Z87-approved safety glasses. Thus, finding the ideal fit for your requirements will be simple.