Top 10 Tips for Choosing Safety Glasses

If you run a construction business, you know safety is non-negotiable. Between managing projects and keeping crews productive, you need reliable eye protection that meets OSHA requirements and feels comfortable all day. Here’s how to choose safety glasses that work as hard as your team does.

OSHA standard 29 CFR 1926.102 requires eye protection wherever there’s a risk of flying debris, dust, or glare. Choose OSHA-approved safety glasses that meet ANSI Z87.1 standards. 

While OSHA enforces safety, ANSI (American National Standards Institute) sets the testing standards. The Z87.1 marking confirms the glasses have passed impact, optical clarity, and coverage tests. Each lens must withstand a single drop ball test—a steel ball dropped from a specified height—with no cracks or shattering to meet the standard.
Z87 or Z87.1 = Non-prescription safety eyewear that meets basic impact requirements
Z87+ = Non-prescription safety eyewear rated for high-impact protection
Z87-2 = Prescription safety eyewear that meets basic impact requirements

Debris doesn’t always come straight at you. OSHA requires side protection whenever there’s a risk of flying materials. Select glasses with built-in or removable side shields for better coverage and flexibility between indoor and outdoor tasks.

Look for polycarbonate lenses marked with “Z87+.” They’re lightweight, resist shattering, and protect against high-velocity impact, which is ideal for construction sites where materials move fast and heavy.

Comfort drives compliance. Choose lightweight frames with adjustable temples, nose pads, and anti-fog coatings to help crews wear them from sunrise to cleanup without irritation.

When working in sunlight or reflective conditions, polarized lenses reduce glare and improve visibility. Just ensure they’re still ANSI Z87.1 certified for impact resistance and pass the required drop ball test.

For team members who wear readers or prescription lenses, select ANSI Z87-2 rated safety glasses or safety glasses with readers. These provide clarity and compliance without compromising protection.

Your safety glasses should work seamlessly with hard hats, respirators, and hearing protection. If your crew wears specific types of safety helmets, consider low-profile frames or strap-compatible designs to prevent interference.

Eye protection isn’t “set it and forget it.” Train workers to check glasses for scratches or cracks before every shift, and replace damaged eyewear right away. Keeping spare pairs on hand helps maintain compliance and prevents downtime.

Reliable eyewear supports your employees' vision and your reputation. Choosing OSHA- and ANSI-compliant safety glasses shows your commitment to keeping every worker safe and productive on the job.

When you’re running a construction business, safety is part of your reputation. By choosing OSHA-approved safety glasses that meet ANSI Z87.1 standards, include side shields, and pass the drop ball test with no cracks or shattering, you’re helping protect your team and your bottom line. Look for fit, comfort, and durability. Because when gear feels good and works well, your crew keeps it on, and that’s what real protection looks like.

Product Compliance and Suitability
The statements contained in this guide are intended for general informational purposes only. Such statements do not constitute a product recommendation or representation as to the appropriateness, accuracy, completeness, correctness, or currentness of the information provided. Information provided in this guide does not replace the use by you of any manufacturer instructions, technical product manual, or other professional resource or adviser available to you. Always read, understand, and follow all manufacturer instructions. Portions of this article were generated in part by ChatGPT, and edited by a member of the Zoro team.