Safety Glasses vs. Safety Goggles: Which Do You Need?

Safety Glasses vs. Safety Goggles: Which Do You Need?

Safety glasses and safety goggles are both ANSI Z87.1-rated eye protection, but they serve different purposes. Choosing the wrong type can leave your eyes exposed to hazards that the other type would have blocked. Here is a clear breakdown to help you choose correctly.

Safety Glasses

Safety glasses look similar to regular eyeglasses but are made from impact-resistant materials (typically polycarbonate lenses and frames). They protect against:

• Flying particles and debris
• Dust (limited protection)
• UV radiation (with appropriate lens coating)
• Low-velocity impacts

Best for: General construction, woodworking, grinding, assembly work, and most industrial environments where chemical splash is not a hazard.

Safety Goggles

Safety goggles form a sealed or semi-sealed enclosure around the eyes, preventing hazards from entering from any direction. They protect against:

• Chemical splashes and vapors
• Fine dust and particles
• Biological hazards
• High-velocity impacts (with appropriate rating)

Best for: Chemical handling, laboratory work, concrete grinding, spray painting, and any environment where liquid splash or fine airborne particles are present.

Key Differences at a Glance

When to Use Both

In some environments, safety glasses are worn under a face shield for combined impact and splash protection. Always conduct a hazard assessment to determine the correct combination of eye protection.

Conclusion

RANOVA USA carries both safety glasses and goggles in ANSI Z87.1-certified configurations. Our team can help you select the right eye protection for your specific work environment.