Eye Protection at Work: When is a Safety Goggle Mandatory?
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Eye Protection at Work: Everything You Need to Know
The eye is one of the most sensitive organs in the human body – and also one of the most frequently injured at work. According to trade association statistics, over 20,000 reportable eye accidents occur in Germany every year. The good news: most of them could be prevented with the right safety goggles.
Why is Eye Protection so Important?
The most common causes of eye injuries at work are:
- Foreign bodies – splinters, chips, dust and grinding particles
- Chemicals – caustic agents, solvents, acids and alkalis
- Radiation – UV radiation, infrared radiation when welding
- Compressed air and spray water – when painting, cleaning or spraying
- Glare – from strong light sources or sunlight outdoors
When is a Safety Goggle Legally Required?
Under the PPE Use Regulation and DGUV regulations, safety goggles are mandatory for: grinding, milling, drilling, sawing and hammering; work with caustic or cleaning agents; welding, flame cutting and soldering; painting, spraying and surface treatment; laboratory and dental technology work; work with compressed air or high-pressure cleaners.
Choosing the Right Safety Goggle by Hazard
| Hazard | Goggle Type | Standard |
|---|---|---|
| Chips, dust, splinters | Classic safety goggle | EN 166 |
| Chemicals, caustic agents | Full vision goggle | EN 166 |
| UV radiation, sun | Tinted safety goggle | EN 166 + EN 172 |
| Painting, spraying | Full vision goggle | EN 166 |
| General dust work | Classic safety goggle | EN 166 |
| Sports, outdoor | Tinted safety goggle | EN 166 + EN 172 |
Important Standards for Safety Goggles
- EN 166 – basic standard for personal eye protection
- EN 170 – filter goggles for UV protection
- EN 172 – sun protection filters for tinted goggles
- Optical class 1 – highest visual performance, no distortions
What to Look for When Buying Safety Goggles
- CE marking – mandatory for all PPE in the EU
- Fit – must sit well without pressing
- Anti-fog coating – prevents fogging during physical activity
- For glasses wearers – over-goggles like the P1S1 allow wearing over own glasses
- Weight – lightweight goggles under 30 g are more comfortable for extended wear
- Made in Germany – guarantees tested quality and reliable certification
Conclusion
Our safety goggles from Kela Schutzartikel – from the classic P1S1 to the SKY to the ACT full vision goggle – are all CE certified, manufactured in Germany and designed for professional use.