OSHA’s 2023 Safety Helmet Announcement & the Future of Industrial Head Protection
In December 2023, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) announced a significant shift in their personal protective equipment (PPE) strategy: inspectors will now wear modern safety helmets, replacing traditional hard hats on worksites. The decision marked a notable endorsement of the advanced safety features that safety helmets provide, signaling the ongoing evolution of industrial […]
Protecting Molten Metal Workers with Proper Face & Eye PPE
Workers in the molten metal industry, such as steel mill workers, face some of the most hazardous conditions in industrial environments. Handling molten metal involves extreme temperatures, radiant heat, and various forms of hazardous light exposure, especially from infrared radiation. Without proper personal protective equipment (PPE), these workers are at severe risk of burns, heat […]
The Case for American-Made PPE: Superior Safety and Long-Term Value
In industrial environments with severe hazards present, the safety of workers depends heavily on the reliability and durability of the personal protective equipment (PPE) they wear. From protecting against chemical exposure to shielding workers from extreme heat or impact, PPE is a critical component of workplace safety. When it comes to choosing the right PPE, […]
The Critical Need for Face and Eye Protection in Cryogenic Work
Cryogenic workers operate in environments characterized by extremely low temperatures, often below -200° Fahrenheit. The nature of their work involves handling and transferring cryogenic liquids like liquid nitrogen, helium, and oxygen. These substances are indispensable in various industries, including medical, aerospace, electronics, and food processing. However, the benefits come with significant risks, making personal protective […]
Understanding Welding Shades to Ensure Optimal Eye Protection
Welding, a critical process in numerous industries, necessitates stringent safety measures, particularly concerning eye protection. The intense light and radiant energy emitted during welding can cause severe eye damage if proper protective gear isn’t used. Welding helmets equipped with appropriate filter lenses, or welding shades, are essential to shield welders’ eyes from harmful UV and […]
What are Optically Correct Lenses?
Among the most critical pieces of personal protective equipment (PPE), face shields and protective eyewear stand out as crucial safeguards against a wide variety of industrial hazards. However, not all protective gear is created equal. Within the realm of eye and face protection, the concept of optical correctness plays a pivotal role in ensuring both […]
Understanding ANSI Z87.1: Primary vs. Secondary Eye Protection
In industrial work environments, safeguarding one’s vision is critical to overall worker safety. ANSI Z87.1, the national safety standard for personal eye and face protection devices, delineates crucial distinctions between primary and secondary eye protection. Understanding the difference between the two is pivotal for both workers and safety professionals to ensure comprehensive eye safety protocols. […]
Understanding the Different Types of Plastics Used for Face Shields & Goggles
In the world of industrial safety, face and eye protection are critical. When it comes to selecting the right face shield or goggles, the performance of the transparent plastic material needs to be taken into consideration. Factors such as resistance to high (or low) temperature, impact, and chemical splash hazards are all important considerations. When […]
An Intro to the ANSI Z87.1 Safety Standard for Face & Eye Protection
In the dynamic landscape of industrial workplaces, the importance of prioritizing safety cannot be overstated. Among the myriad safety standards that govern protective equipment, ANSI Z87.1 stands out as a cornerstone for face and eye protection. In this blog, we’ll delve into some of the safety requirements of the ANSI Z87.1 standard, aiming to empower […]
Dark Tinted vs. Shaded Face Shields: What is the Difference?
A dark tinted face shield and a face shield with a shade rating for IR (infrared) protection are both types of personal protective equipment (PPE) designed to shield the wearer’s face and eyes from various hazards, but they serve different purposes and offer distinct levels of protection. A dark tinted face shield is primarily used […]