2. My employees complain that their sideshields impair their side vision. Yet, sideshields are mandatory in our plant. What can I do about this?

Let's face it. Most people don't like wearing sideshields; therefore, that is a common complaint. However, it's been proven that shields don't significantly impair peripheral (side) vision. The following excerpts are from a study by the US Naval Weapons Center China Lake, California, titled: “The Effects of Safety Glasses Sideshields on Peripheral Vision” . . .

"No statistically reliable degradation was found, etc. . . . ."

". . . . . visual resolution is not importantly degraded in the peripheral area by any of the sideshields. Moreover, turning just the eyes to look through the shield foveally is unlikely since maximum eye movement is normally 35 degrees to left or right whereas most shields do not begin to appear until approximately 50 degrees or further."

For a printable copy of the results of the study

3. About sideshields . . .
Forklift drivers complain that wearing sideshields can cause them to have an accident because they can't see well. How can I handle this complaint? Not wearing shields isn't an option.

This issue was dealt with in Canada. A study was performed and the Canadian Standard addressed the issue. Though this problem hasn't been formally addressed in the U.S., the resolution to the problem is appropriate no matter where you live. Here's an excerpt from the study:

"The main complaints seem to come from lift truck operators who contend that they need peripheral vision to avoid accidents. The basis of the complaint is really not valid because the amount of visual acuity in the periphery is minimal even without side protection."

For more information on the study and for effective counter measures to the complaint, please

4. Is the standard called ANSI Z87.1-2003 or 1989?

The standard, which is now called the 2003 standard, was approved and went into effect on August 19, 2003. The ANSI Z87.1-2003 standard is significantly different from the 1989 standard. The frame, lenses, and sideshields all must meet testing criteria to be marked to the 2003 standard. Contact Titmus for more information.

5. Will all Titmus frames now show the Z87.2 marking?

Effective 19 August 2003, all safety frames manufactured must be marked with Z87-2 (not Z87.2) if they meet the ANSI Z87.1-2003 standard. Please note that the correct marking is not Z87.2. The "Z87-2" indicates that the frame was tested with 2.0mm polycarbonate lenses and that it passed the required testing.

6. The standard states ANSI Z87.1-2003. Then you refer to Z87-2. Which is it?

"ANSI Z87.1-2003" is the name of the standard. The standard then states the marking methods for the frames and the lenses. Please note that the marking for the frames is Z87-2, indicating it passed testing with 2.0mm polycarbonate lenses, (not Z87.2) and the marking for the lenses shows a "+" mark after the manufacturer's logo.

7. Does the standard explain how a manufacturing plant is supposed to decide which jobs require High Impact lenses? Is there a guideline to follow?

The standard does not explain the responsibility of the employer. The standard separates the performance level of the lenses as Basic Impact or High Impact. It is the responsibility of the employer to perform an assessment of the facility and determine the protection required. Note that for some jobs, a face shield or cover goggles may be required OVER the safety glasses with sideshields. If there are any questions, refer your customer to OSHA 29 CFR 1910.132 (for PPE) and OSHA 29 CFR 1910.133 for Eye and Face Protection. Visit www.osha.gov for copies of the regulations.

9. I have a lot of employees who wear prescription glasses. Some of them complain that the safety glasses I give them to wear over their regular glasses are uncomfortable. What should I do to get them to wear their safety glasses?

This is a question we are often asked. Because OSHA mandates that safety glasses are to be worn if there is danger of an eye injury, it is up to the employer to ensure the employees are wearing their safety glasses. If an employee must wear a prescription, the best way to make sure the glasses will be worn is to provide PRESCRIPTION SAFETY GLASSES. You may think this would cost you more, but actually the cost of implementing a prescription safety program is comparable to a program that provides only planos.

Your Titmus Sales Representative will be happy to explain how you can administer a Prescription Safety Eyewear Program. For more information, call 800-446-1802 and press "2." Or, fill out our guestbook and a representative will contact you soon.

11. Can I use other manufacturer's sideshields on Titmus frames?

No. Please see the answers for Question 3. As you can see, shields are made specifically for the frames they fit - especially since the changes in the ANSI Z87.1-2003 standard (they must now provide greater lateral protection). Also, the liability issue is important - that also applies for use of Titmus shields on other manufacturer's frames.

12. Can I put dress (non-industrial) lenses into a safety frame?

Titmus does not recommend using lenses that do not meet the Z87 standard for High Impact resistance in a safety frame. We realize our frames look good and are styled to have the appearance of a dress frame. However, keep in mind that if dress lenses are placed in a safety frame, the frame will not meet the Z87 standard for High Impact.

Also, if the person wearing the frame suffers an eye injury, the manufacturer of the prescription could be held liable. You will find few laboratories willing to fill such a prescription. Titmus recommends polycarbonate lenses, meeting the ANSI Z87 standard for High Impact resistance, in all safety frames.