OSHA continues to focus on the proper use of PPE in general and in the construction industries. In the past, I’ve discussed fire-rated clothing and “rubber protective goods” (gloves, sleeves, line coverings). Today, let’s focus on an issue that, in my opinion, we take for granted far too much—eye and face protection.

The OSHA standards governing eye and face protection include 1910.133 (general industry) and 1926.102 (construction). They focus on workers in different environments, and basically state the same requirements. 

Employees may find themselves doing work that falls under one or both of these standards. The line between the two is very thin. To illustrate those minute differences, we used to say that if you were replacing a 50W light bulb with a 50W light bulb, you would fall under the general industry standards. But change that same 50W bulb with a 100W bulb and you would fall under the construction standards. There is not much difference here, except that you are no longer doing maintenance (like for like)—you are improving the existing condition (from 50W to 100W). Examples like these are why OSHA has attempted over the years, with some success, to harmonize its regulations.

Let’s look at some of the highlights of each particular standard.

1910.133

• This rule applies to general industry workplaces and mandates the use of eye and face protection to safeguard workers from potential hazards that could cause injury. It includes the following items:
• Provision and use: Employers must provide proper eye and face protection whenever workers are exposed to hazardous conditions such as flying objects, chemicals, radiation or dust.
• Selection criteria: The protective equipment must be appropriate for the specific hazards present, ensuring proper protection.
• Maintenance: Employers must ensure that eye and face protection is properly maintained and sanitized.
• Regulations: This standard outlines specific requirements for different types of eye and face protection, such as safety glasses, goggles, face shields and welding helmets.

1926.102

This rule is similar to 1910.133 but specifically applies to construction settings. It emphasizes: 

• Use of protection: Workers in construction must use proper eye and face protection when exposed to hazards such as flying debris, chemicals or radiation.
• Protection from impact and nonimpact hazards: It specifies protection against impact (e.g., flying objects) and nonimpact hazards (e.g., chemicals and welding rays).
• Equipment standards: The protective gear must meet the relevant American National Standards Institute standards (Z187.1).
• Training: Employers must ensure that workers are trained in the proper use and maintenance of eye and face protection.

Note: 1926 also covers the fit, comfort and durability of PPE for the employee.

Both standards require side shields on protective glasses when there is potential hazard from flying objects. Both standards also provide the employer with direction for those employees who wear prescription glasses to either provide glasses that can go over the prescription glasses or provide protective eyewear with the prescription. In addition, both rules cover the specifications needed to follow when welding operations are being done as well as laser protection.

All eye and face PPE must be distinctly marked so the manufacturer is easily identifiable.

Both rules ensure that workers are provided with appropriate protection for their eyes and face in the presence of hazards, with detailed guidelines for the selection, use, maintenance and training necessary to maintain safety in both general industry and construction environments.

We often look at various requirements for PPE as bothersome and inconvenient, when in fact they are just the opposite—essential for our overall well-being. Protecting the eyes and face enables us to enjoy what life offers us and lets us see and appreciate the beauty that we live in.

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