ANSI/ISEA Z87.1-2010 establishes performance criteria and testing requirements for devices used to protect the eyes and face from injuries from impact, non-ionizing radiation and chemical exposure in workplaces and schools. It covers all types of protector configurations including spectacles (plano and prescription), goggles, faceshields, welding helmets and full facepiece respirators.

The 2010 edition represents a dramatic change in the way the standard is organized and how users of eye and face protectors will utilize the standard for selecting products for specific hazards. Earlier versions were organized by the type of protector. Each type of protector had a chapter in the standard. The chapter described the protector, the required testing and optical properties and established product marking requirements. This led to significant repetition within the standard as some products have the same testing, optical and marking requirements.

This updated standard is the product of work on behalf of the Z87 committee to develop a standard that focuses on the hazard, rather than protector type. A benefit of this hazard approach to the standard is that it will encourage users and employers to evaluate the specific hazards that they are exposed to in their environment. Selection of appropriate eye and face protection should be based on this hazard evaluation. Because the standard is radically different, the product markings have changed. Users will need to be educated on matching the hazard that they need protection from with the marking on the product. Specific evaluation is included for workplace hazards such as:

• impact
• optical radiation
• droplet and splash
• dust
• fine dust particles

The standard includes descriptions and general requirements, as well as criteria for testing, marking, selection, use and care. Note that it does not apply to hazardous exposure to bloodborne pathogens, X-rays, high-energy particulate radiation, microwaves, high-frequency radiation, lasers, masers, or sports.

A section on selection, use and maintenance defines all types of eye and face protectors, and provides guidance on hazard assessment and selection. A pull-out selection chart is included, showing recommended protectors for various types of work activities that can product impact, heat, chemical, dust or optical radiation hazards.