A Brief History of Safety Glasses and Modern Innovations

The Evolution of Safety Glasses

The journey of safety glasses from rudimentary eye protection to sophisticated modern eyewear is a story of continuous innovation and dedication to worker safety. Understanding this evolution highlights how far we’ve come in providing effective eye protection and underscores the importance of ANSI Z87.1 standards and OSHA compliance in today’s workplace.

The Early Beginnings

The first patent for an “eye protector” was granted to an African American innovator, P. Johnson. This early version of eye safety equipment was designed to protect the eyes of firemen, metalworkers, and furnace workers. However, Johnson’s invention was primarily intended to shield against bright lights rather than providing robust protection against physical hazards. It lacked the impact resistance necessary to prevent serious eye injuries.

Key Contributions to Safety Eyewear

Significant advancements in protective eyewear began with French scientist Edouard Benedictus. After accidentally damaging a glass flask coated with cellulose nitrate, he discovered that this material could form a thin, protective layer over glass. This marked the early experimentation with and creation of safety glass. Though revolutionary at the time, this type of glass coating has since been replaced by more durable materials such as polycarbonate, which offer superior impact resistance.

Another pivotal figure in the history of safety glasses was Julius King, renowned as the United States’ “first teacher of optics.” In 1909, King’s Julius King Optical Company produced the first safety goggles, known as SANIGLAS. These goggles represented a significant step forward in protective eyewear. In 1923, American Optical (AO) acquired the Julius King Optical Company, and Julius King’s son, Walter King, played a crucial role in developing AO’s safety division, which later evolved into AO Safety.

Modern Innovations and Industry Evolution

Over the decades, the AO Safety business evolved to become part of Cabot Safety, Aearo Technologies, and later 3M Safety Prescription Eyewear. Eventually, it was acquired by HOYA, a global leader in ophthalmic lens manufacturer. Today, this legacy continues under the name SafeVision by HOYA, the leading provider of prescription safety glasses in North America.

Modern Safety Glasses: Combining Safety and Vision Correction

Modern safety glasses incorporate advanced materials and technology to provide superior protection and comfort. One of the most significant advancements in safety eyewear is the development of prescription safety glasses. These glasses integrate vision correction with safety features, eliminating the need for workers to switch between regular glasses and safety glasses. This innovation has greatly improved both safety and convenience in the workplace. This advancement ensures that workers who require corrective lenses do not have to choose between clear vision and safety.

Emphasis on ANSI Z87.1 Standards

The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) Z87.1 standard is crucial in ensuring the effectiveness of safety glasses. This set of standards includes manufacturing requirements and testing methodologies for:

• Impact Resistance: Safety glasses must withstand high-velocity impacts from flying debris and other hazards.
• Coverage: Glasses should offer comprehensive protection, including side shields.
• Optical Quality: Lenses must meet strict clarity standards to prevent vision distortion and reduce eye strain.
• Durability: Frames and lenses should be resistant to chemicals and other contaminants.

OSHA Compliance: A Mandate for Safety

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) mandates that safety glasses meet ANSI Z87.1 standards in workplaces with potential eye hazards. OSHA regulations require eyewear to meet stringent safety criteria, protecting employees and contributing to a safer work environment.

Modern Design Features

Today’s safety glasses come with several enhancements:

• Lightweight Materials: Modern frames and lenses are made from lightweight, durable materials for all-day comfort. Like nylon and titanium.
• Anti-Scratch, Anti-Smudge, Anti-Reflective, & Anti-Fog Coatings: These features improve visibility, wearability and extend the lifespan of safety glasses.
• Adjustable Frames: Customizable fit options ensure comfort and secure fit for various face shapes and sizes. With vastly increased options for different sizes, colors, designs and accessories.
• Stylish Designs: Contemporary safety glasses are available in a range of styles, making them more appealing and encouraging consistent use. Many come with removable side shields making for a hybrid, single-pair option to wear both on the job and as an everyday pair.

SafeVision by HOYA: Leading the Charge in Prescription Safety Glasses

SafeVision by HOYA continues the legacy of innovation in safety eyewear. We design our prescription safety glasses to meet ANSI Z87.1 standards and comply with OSHA regulations, ensuring maximum protection and comfort. SafeVision’s corporate programs offer:

• Professional Optician Fittings: Access to a vast network of eye care providers across North America. Ensuring a perfect fit for every employee.
• Wide Range of Styles: Providing safety glasses that combine functionality and style.
• Turn-key Solutions: Single price-point packages include prescription lenses (material, design, coatings) and frames for easy budgeting with streamlined invoicing from a single vendor.

Conclusion

The evolution of safety glasses from the early designs to the advanced prescription safety glasses offered by SafeVision by HOYA reflects a significant advancement in protecting workers’ eyes. By adhering to ANSI Z87.1 standards and OSHA regulations, modern safety glasses provide unparalleled protection and comfort. SafeVision by HOYA remains at the forefront of this evolution, delivering cutting-edge solutions that ensure the safety and well-being of today’s workforce.

Understanding the rich history and modern advancements in safety eyewear helps us appreciate the importance of continuous innovation and adherence to safety standards in protecting our workforce. SafeVision by HOYA upholds these standards and provides top-quality prescription safety glasses for a safer work environment.