Aug
If you want to eliminate the need to swap between eyeglasses and sunglasses when you go outside and return inside, one convenient pair with photochromic lenses may work for you. Let’s discuss all the benefits you should consider when deciding if including photochromic lenses in your next pair of safety eyewear purchased from SafeVision is right for your needs.
What Are Photochromic Lenses?
Photochromic lenses are lenses that automatically darken as you step outside and expose yourself to UV light. When the sun’s rays hit the lenses, it triggers the photochromic compounds and causes them to darken. The compounds stop when you transition out of the sunlight, and the lenses return to the normal transparent state. Adding this type of lens eliminates the need for multiple pairs of eyewear or lenses.
How Do Photochromic Lenses Work?
Photochromic lenses work the way they do because the molecules that are responsible for the darkening of the lenses are activated by the ultraviolet radiation in sunlight. UV rays can penetrate clouds, which is why photochromic lenses are capable of darkening on cloudy days. Direct sunlight is not required for them to work. They shield eyes from 100 percent of the harmful ultraviolet rays from the sun.
Many people choose to use an anti-reflective coating on their photochromic lenses to enhance their performance. Anti-reflective coating allows a greater amount of light to pass through the lenses to provide sharper vision in low-light conditions, like driving at night. This also removes reflections of sunlight and other distractions from the reverse side of the lenses when conditions are bright.
Inside vs. Outside
For some jobs, you may transition from indoor to outdoor frequently. But the time it takes the lenses to transition from light to dark fully, and vice versa, does not happen instantly. To completely change, it can a few minutes either way, which exposes your eyes to more UV light and may compromise your sight. That is why in most workplaces where the transition in environments is common, these lenses aren’t allowed. But if your job is outside the majority of the time, photochromic lenses are a great option. Be sure you check with your safety manager or one of our experts at SafeVision to determine if photochromic lenses are the best option for you to wear on the job.
Use Photochromatic Lenses While Driving
If you are considering wearing a pair of photochromic lenses to drive, think again. The windshield in every vehicle blocks the needed UV light, which triggers the lenses’ transition, so the lenses won’t work.
Are Photochromic Lenses for your Safety Eyewear Right for You?
When trying to consider if photochromic eyewear is right for you, think about a few of the following below:
- When and where will you wear them?
- Are you going to be inside or outside?
- They are a convenient option to eliminate wearing more than one pair of eyewear.
If you still aren’t sure if photochromic lenses will be the right fit for you, speak with one of our experts at SafeVision. Together we can find the perfect lenses for your safety eyewear based on what is best for your environment and needs.