When it comes to working with glass, safety should always be a top priority. Glassworking is a fascinating craft that involves a wide range of techniques and applications, but it also comes with its own set of unique hazards. To ensure your safety and protect your vision, choosing the right pair of safety glasses is of paramount importance.
In this buyer’s guide, we will walk you through the key considerations for selecting the perfect glassworking safety glasses.
UNDERSTANDING GLASSWORKING HAZARDS
Glassworking can expose you to a variety of hazards that can pose risks to your eyes and vision. These hazards include:
EXPOSURE TO UV RADIATION
Many glassworking techniques, such as torchwork and furnace work, emit harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation that can damage your eyes over time.
HEAT
The intense heat generated during glassblowing, lampworking, or kiln work can be harmful to your eyes, necessitating eye protection that can withstand high temperatures.
CHEMICAL SPLASHES
Working with chemicals and solvents in the glassworking process can lead to accidental splashes that may cause eye injuries.
FLYING GLASS PARTICLES
Glass fragments can be propelled into the air during cutting, grinding, or shaping processes, posing a risk of eye injuries.
LENS FILTERS
Selecting the right lens filter is crucial when choosing glassworking safety glasses. Different types of glass and specific applications require specific lens filters to optimize protection and visibility. Phillips Safety offers a range of glassworking lenses, each with a wide variety of safety glasses options. Our lens filters include the following:
Designed for use with small and large glass work, as well as furnace work, this lens offers excellent IR protection and UV protection, ensuring you can work comfortably and safely.
Ideal for soft glass applications and small glass work, this lens provides excellent protection against sodium flare while maintaining great color recognition and clarity.
Offers a balanced protection against UV radiation and sodium flare, making it a versatile choice for various glassworking techniques, including soft glass and small glass work.
Designed for borosilicate glass and small glass work, this lens filter offers exceptional protection against UV, IR radiation and sodium flare, maintaining a clear view of the workpiece.
Crafted for borosilicate glass and large glass work, it offers optimal UV, IR, and sodium flare protection, making it suitable for high-intensity glass work.
This filter is excellent for borosilicate glass and furnace work applications, as well as small glass work. It provides exceptional UV, IR, and sodium flare protection.
The 5.0 version is excellent for borosilicate glass and furnace work applications, as well as large glass work. It offers enhanced UV, IR and sodium flare protection for the most demanding glassworking tasks.
LENS MATERIALS
The choice of lens materials plays a significant role in the durability and effectiveness of your glassworking safety glasses. Two common materials used are:
Polycarbonate: Known for their impact resistance, polycarbonate lenses are a popular choice for safety glasses. They offer excellent protection against flying glass particles and UV radiation.
Glass: Glass lenses are highly resistant to scratches, making them a durable choice for glassworkers. They provide clear vision and protection against UV radiation and heat. Within our options, the Phillips 202 filter is offered with glass lenses.
FRAME STYLES AND COMFORT
Comfort is crucial when selecting glassworking safety glasses, as you may wear them for extended periods. Phillips Safety offers a variety of frame styles, including safety glasses, safety glasses with side shields, fitovers, and safety goggles. Choose a style that fits securely, provides the necessary coverage, and ensures long-lasting comfort.
Safety glasses are a versatile choice suitable for general glassworking applications, providing protection against UV radiation, heat, and flying glass particles. Wraparound frames or safety glasses with side shields offer comprehensive eye coverage, particularly useful when additional protection on the sides is required. Fitovers are designed to be worn over prescription eyewear, making them an excellent choice for individuals in need of vision correction. Safety goggles are the preferred option for applications that demand a complete seal around the eyes, such as when working with chemicals, ensuring comprehensive protection.
COMPLIANCE WITH SAFETY STANDARDS
Always ensure that your glassworking safety glasses meet industry safety standards. Phillips Safety glasses are compliant with the ANSI Z87 and EN166 standards, assuring you quality and safety.
CHOOSE PHILLIPS SAFETY
Phillips Safety is a trusted name in the field of safety glasses, known for its commitment to quality and innovation. Our range of glassworking safety glasses, available in various lens filters and styles, ensures you can find the perfect fit for your specific needs. With a focus on protection and comfort, Phillips Safety is a brand you can rely on.
In conclusion, choosing the right glassworking safety glasses is a critical decision for any glassworker. By understanding the hazards involved, selecting the appropriate lens filters and materials, and ensuring compliance with safety standards, you can safeguard your vision while pursuing your glassworking passion. Trust Phillips Safety to provide you with top-quality safety glasses that combine protection, comfort, and innovation. Your eyes deserve nothing less.