Wiley X makes safety glasses that people enjoy wearing

Binyon Vision has partnered with Wiley X to supply our patients prescription and non-prescription safety glasses for over 20 years. Recognized as a trusted name when it comes to safety eyewear, their mission is to protect eyes and design glasses that can be worn anywhere. With the wide variety of styles and lens options that have all been rigorously tested for safety- they’re right on target.

What is the Z87.1+ stamp and why do we care?

The national standard for safety glasses outlines a specific set of 3 test requirements that glasses and goggles must pass to be stamped as Z87.1+ certified. It’s good to have standards when it comes to protecting your eyes and interesting to know what goes into meeting these standards. Here is a brief summary of the four qualifying tests for Z87.1+ certification.

• Test 1: Drop Ball Test – the most basic test is to drop a 1″ steel ball on the lens in the glasses from about 50 inches. To pass, no pieces of the lenses or frame may break free or fracture. This is a good indication of the overall strength of the glasses and meant to simulate an impact like a slipping tool that lands on a worker’s face or a lens collision with a stationary object. Passing this test will award the safety glasses design a Z87.1 certification.
• 2: High Velocity Impact Test – a 1/4″ ball is fired on 20 specific points on the lens of safety glasses at a speed of 102 mph. In addition to the requirements listed in test 1, the eye on the “dummy” face cannot come in contact with the lens during any point of the impact. This test is supposed to mimic flying projectiles in work functions such as grinding, chipping or machining. Passing this test and the above awards the Z87.1+ certification.

All Wiley X ANSI-rated frames and lenses have passed the requirements for ANSI Z78.1+ safety glasses described above. An important aspect to the safety glasses design is the connection point of the frame and lenses, and this insertion must be done at the Wiley X laboratory. Updating a prescription in a safety frame should require this extra step to maintain the Z87.1 or Z87.1+ safety rating.

Performance safety glasses that you want to wear

These aren’t your gas station safety glasses! Wiley X has a wide range of wearable frames from wraparound styles with removable dust guards, to office/dress styles with removable side shields. They keep active lifestyles and active performance in mind with designs and have specific lines for these professions- construction, first responder, oil and gas, healthy and safety, law enforcement and manufacturing. Styles are available in multiple colors and lenses are available with a wide range of parameters. Wiley X safety glasses are a favorite among Binyon’s patients who are builders and refinery workers, and they often use transitions light sensitive darkening lenses that allow them to stay safe as they move from indoors to outdoors in their work environments.

Binyon Vision Center is proud to offer a wide range of Wiley X safety eyewear in store for try on! There are some prescription limitations and it’s important to discuss all the possible options with a trained optician. Stop by today to try on Wiley X safety glasses today to elevate the performance and the look of your safety eyewear!