ANSI Z87.1 Explained: How to Read Safety Eyewear Markings
When shopping for safety eyewear, you will notice a series of letters and symbols stamped on the lens and frame. These markings are part of the ANSI/ISEA Z87.1 standard and tell you exactly what protection the eyewear provides. Here is how to decode them.
The Z87 and Z87+ Marking
Z87 indicates the eyewear meets basic impact requirements. Z87+ (with a plus sign) indicates the eyewear meets the higher-impact "high velocity" test, which simulates a steel ball traveling at 150 feet per second. For most industrial applications, Z87+ is the preferred standard.
Lens Markings
- No additional marking: Basic impact protection
- +: High impact protection
- D3: Splash and droplet protection (chemical goggles)
- D4: Dust protection
- D5: Fine dust protection
- W (followed by shade number): Welding protection (e.g., W3, W5)
- U (followed by scale number): UV protection level
- L (followed by scale number): Visible light filter
- R (followed by scale number): Infrared filter
Frame Markings
The frame will carry the manufacturer's mark followed by Z87 or Z87+. Frames marked with a “U” indicate they are designed for use with UV-filtering lenses.
Lens Tint Codes
- Clear: General indoor use, maximum light transmission
- Gray: Outdoor use, reduces brightness without color distortion
- Amber/Yellow: Low-light and overcast conditions, enhances contrast
- Mirror: High-glare outdoor environments
- IR (Infrared): Furnace work, glassblowing, and foundry operations
Conclusion
Understanding ANSI Z87.1 markings ensures you select the right eye protection for your specific hazards. RANOVA USA's safety eyewear is fully marked and certified — shop with confidence knowing your PPE meets the standard.
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