Key points
- AS/NZS 1337.1 sets minimum requirements for non-prescription eye and face protectors against flying particles, dust, splashes, molten metal, gases and vapours.
- Impact levels run from low to extra high, and spectacles and goggles reach low or medium impact while face shields can reach high and extra high.
- Letters on the protector show other protection, such as splash, dust, gas or molten metal.
- Choose by the hazard, check the marking and the listing, and keep eyewash ready where chemicals are used.
This guide explains how to select safety glasses, safety goggles and face shields for Australian workplaces. It covers the impact levels and markings in AS/NZS 1337.1 so you can match the protector to the hazard.
Personal protective equipment is the last line of defence in the hierarchy of controls. Higher controls such as machine guards, screens and local exhaust ventilation should be used first. PPE is then provided, fitted and maintained by the business, and workers use it as instructed.
When do you need eye protection?
Eye protection is required when a task can send particles, dust, splashes or radiation toward the eyes. Common sources include grinding, cutting, drilling, sanding and abrasive blasting. Chemical handling, molten metal work and hot solids also create splash and radiant heat hazards. Gases, vapours and aerosols can irritate or damage the eyes. Bright glare and optical radiation from welding, lasers or outdoor sun add further risk. The business identifies the hazard by asking what can reach the eyes and from where. A risk assessment then decides which control, including eye protection, is needed.
The type of protector depends on the nature of the hazard. Flying particles from power tools call for impact rated spectacles or goggles. Dusty environments need a seal around the eyes. Chemical splash requires a protector marked for splash resistance. Molten metal and hot solids need a marking for molten metal. Gases and vapours need a gas tight rating. Each hazard is matched to the marking on the product listing.
What does AS/NZS 1337.1 cover?
AS/NZS 1337.1 specifies minimum requirements for non-prescription eye and face protectors and their lenses. It addresses protection against flying particles and fragments, dusts, splashing materials and molten metals, harmful gases, vapours and aerosols. The standard also aims to assist in the provision of safe, efficient and comfortable vision at work, including protection against sunglare and optical radiation in the natural environment. Listings on our store state the standard when the product is listed against it.
The standard applies to spectacles, goggles, eye shields and face shields that are not prescription eyewear. It sets test methods for impact and optical quality. It also defines the marking system that tells you which hazards a protector has been tested for. When you browse the eye and face protection range, look for products marked as tested to AS/NZS 1337.1.
What do the impact levels mean?
Impact levels indicate the speed at which a projectile is fired at the protector during testing. The higher the speed, the harder the object the protector is tested to stop. Match the level to the task and the energy of the particles you expect.
| Impact level | Test speed | Which protectors can reach it |
|---|---|---|
| Low impact | 13 metres per second | Spectacles, goggles, eye shields and face shields |
| Medium impact | 45 metres per second | Spectacles, goggles, eye shields and face shields |
| High impact | 120 metres per second | Face shields |
| Extra high impact | 190 metres per second | Face shields |
Spectacles, goggles and eye shields can achieve low and medium impact ratings. Face shields can achieve all four levels. Check the marking on the frame or lens to confirm the impact rating for the specific model.
Safety glasses, goggles or a face shield?
Spectacles are suited to general flying particles where side protection is adequate. Goggles seal around the eyes and are the choice for dust, fine particles and liquid splash. Face shields cover the whole face and can reach high and extra high impact levels. A face shield is often worn over glasses or goggles for combined eye and face protection. Check the listing for the intended use and the impact rating. Maxisafe Clear Safety Glasses EAS320 is an example of a spectacle style protector.
The decision starts with the hazard assessment. If the risk is primarily impact from larger particles, spectacles rated to medium impact may be sufficient. If dust or splash is present, goggles with the appropriate marking are needed. If the face itself is at risk from high energy impact, molten metal or chemical splash, a face shield with the correct rating is required. In many cases the face shield is used together with goggles or spectacles.
What do the other markings mean?
Letters on the protector indicate extra protection beyond impact. A protector only has the protection its marking shows. Look for these letters on the frame or lens and on the product listing.
| Marking | Meaning |
|---|---|
| C or 3 | Splash proof |
| D or 4 | Dust proof |
| G or 5 | Gas tight |
| M or 9 | Molten metal and hot solids |
If a task involves chemical splash, choose a protector marked C or 3. For dusty environments, look for D or 4. Gas or vapour hazards need G or 5. Molten metal and hot solids require M or 9. A single protector can carry more than one letter if it has passed the relevant tests.
Which lens tint should you choose?
Clear lenses are the default for indoor work and low light conditions. Tinted or smoke lenses reduce glare for outdoor work in bright sun. Amber or yellow lenses are common on listings for low light contrast enhancement. Mirror lenses reflect intense light for very bright conditions. Check the listing for indoor or outdoor use guidance. Vision Safe Yellow Frame Safety Glasses with Amber Hard Coat Lenses is an example with an amber tint.
Lens coatings also affect performance. Anti fog coatings help in humid or temperature changing environments. Anti scratch coatings extend lens life in abrasive conditions. Some listings combine both. Select the tint and coating combination that matches the lighting and environment of the task.
What about welding and cutting?
Welding and cutting need filters with the right shade for the process. Check the welding helmet or face shield listing for the shade and the standard it is listed against. Some face shields and visors are made for gas welding and cutting. Auto darkening helmets adjust the shade automatically when the arc strikes. Portwest Welding Helmet with Auto-Darkening Filter PW65BKR is an example of an auto darkening helmet.
Standard safety glasses do not provide adequate protection for welding arcs. The intense ultraviolet and infrared radiation requires a specific filter shade. The listing states the shade and the standard. Choose a helmet or visor that matches the welding process.
How should safety glasses fit?
Safety glasses should sit close to the face without touching the eyelashes. Side protection is required to stop particles entering from the temples. There should be no gaps at the temples or the brow. The frame must be comfortable over a full shift. Adjustable arms or straps help achieve a secure fit. Anti fog and anti scratch coatings on many listings improve usability. Check the listing for fit features and adjustability.
A poor fit reduces protection and leads to non compliance. Workers should try the glasses with any other PPE they wear, such as earmuffs or respirators, to ensure compatibility. If the glasses slide, pinch or leave gaps, a different frame style or size is needed. Comfort and coverage go together.
What if workers wear prescription glasses?
Normal prescription glasses are not safety glasses and do not meet impact requirements. Over glasses (OTG) goggles or spectacles are designed to fit over prescription glasses. Alternatively, prescription safety eyewear can be obtained from an optical supplier. Check the listing for over glasses fit and the impact rating of the OTG protector.
OTG protectors must still meet the relevant impact level for the task. They are marked in the same way as non prescription protectors. Workers who wear prescription lenses daily may find prescription safety glasses more comfortable for long shifts. The business should provide the option that suits the worker and the hazard.
Why keep eyewash ready?
Where chemicals or dust can reach the eyes, keep an eyewash station or eyewash bottles close to the work. Check the safety data sheet for first aid steps. Some eyewash products on our store are listed against AS 4775. Inspect and refill as the manufacturer says. Fast Aid Emergency Eyewash Station is an example of an eyewash station.
Flushing straight away matters after chemical contact, so keep the eyewash close and the path to it clear. Plumbed stations provide a continuous flow. Portable bottles suit mobile or remote work. Both types need regular inspection to ensure fluid is in date and the flow works.
How do you look after and replace eye protection?
Clean lenses as the manufacturer says. Store protectors in a case or pouch to prevent scratches. Replace when scratched, pitted, cracked or after a heavy impact. Replace straps that have lost stretch. Keep spares on site so damaged units can be swapped immediately.
Regular inspection is part of the maintenance routine. Check frames for cracks, lenses for optical distortion and straps for elasticity. A protector that has taken a significant impact may have hidden damage. When in doubt, replace it.
Trade buying gives you quick order by SKU, quote requests and account management. Quick order lets you paste a list of SKUs and quantities. Request a quote with product names or SKUs, quantities, a required by date and delivery or pickup preference.
Frequently asked questions
Are all safety glasses medium impact?
No, check the marking on the frame or lens. Many listings state medium impact. Match the impact level to the hazard.
Can safety glasses protect against chemical splash?
Splash needs a protector marked for splash, usually goggles or a face shield marked C or 3. Standard spectacles without the marking do not seal against liquids.
Is a face shield enough on its own?
It depends on the hazard and the listing. A face shield is often worn with glasses or goggles underneath for full eye protection. Check the product listing for the intended use.
Do tinted safety glasses work indoors?
Tint reduces light transmission. Use clear or amber lenses in low light or indoor conditions. Tinted lenses are for outdoor glare.
How often should safety glasses be replaced?
There is no fixed interval. Condition decides. Replace when scratched, pitted, cracked, after a heavy impact or when straps lose stretch.
For help selecting eye and face protection, call 1300 078 277 or visit our contact page.
Shop eye and face protection
- Eye and face protectionFull range of spectacles, goggles, face shields and accessories
- Maxisafe safety glassesClear, smoke and specialty lenses in spectacle styles
- Welding protectionHelmets, face shields, visors, goggles and clothing
- Emergency showers and eyewash stationsPlumbed and portable eyewash and shower units
Related guides
- Our article 'PPE in Australia: A Complete Guide for Workplaces'types of PPE, the standards on listings and how to choose, fit and replace them
- Our respirator guideP1, P2 and P3 filters, fit testing and AS/NZS 1716
- Our work gloves guidehow to read the EN 388 marking and cut levels A to F
- Our safety boots guideAS/NZS 2210.3 and the SB to S3 classes
Sources
- uvex safety Australia, Safety Eyewear: Australian Standard AS/NZS 1337.1.
- Safe Work Australia, Personal protective equipment (PPE): overview.
