Safety Sunglasses ·

Do Sunglasses Work as Safety Glasses?

Do Sunglasses Work as Safety Glasses?

For tradespeople and anyone working in high-risk environments, quality eye protection is crucial. But while regular sunglasses offer some UV protection, can they really double as safety glasses? In this blog, we’ll explore who needs safety glasses, the differences between sunglasses and safety glasses, what to look for in protective eyewear, and why safety sunglasses are an excellent choice for tradespeople. We’ll also share why choosing a brand with industry experience—like our range developed by the team behind Spotters Sunglasses, a leader in lens technology for over 25 years—is a smart choice for job site eyewear.

Which Tradespeople Need to Wear Safety Glasses at Work?

Eye protection is essential for tradespeople in many fields, and safety glasses are typically required in environments where hazards like flying debris, dust, and chemicals are present. Here are some of the trades where safety glasses are a must and why they’re so important:

  1. Construction Workers

   Construction sites are filled with airborne particles and debris from materials like wood, metal, and concrete. Safety glasses help shield construction workers from these dangers, allowing them to work safely and confidently.

  1. Electricians

   Electricians work with live wires and other equipment that can produce sparks and electrical arcs, which can be dangerous to the eyes. Safety glasses not only protect against impact but also block dust and other particles in the work area.

  1. Plumbers

   Working with a variety of tools, metal shavings, and chemicals, plumbers rely on safety glasses to protect against splashes, debris, and hot water, keeping their vision clear and safe.

  1. Welders and Metalworkers  

   Welders and metalworkers are at risk of exposure to intense UV and infrared light from welding arcs. Specially designed safety eyewear can shield them from these harmful rays and flying sparks.

  1. Carpenters and Woodworkers  

   Sawdust and wood chips are common hazards for woodworkers, and safety glasses protect them from these irritants, reducing the risk of injury.

  1. Landscapers and Gardeners 

   Landscapers encounter dust, chemicals, and flying debris outdoors. Safety glasses guard against these elements, making outdoor work safer. 

 Can You Wear Sunglasses as Safety Glasses?

While regular sunglasses protect against UV rays, they generally aren’t built to handle the impact hazards present on a job site. Choosing the right safety glasses means looking for key features that prioritise protection, comfort, and durability. Here’s what to consider when selecting safety eyewear:

  1. Compliance with Safety Standards  

   In Australia, safety glasses that meet AS/NZS 1337.1:2010 – Medium Impact are certified to protect against impact and other workplace hazards. These standards ensure that the eyewear has been rigorously tested to handle demanding environments.

  1. Side Protection

   Safety glasses should be designed with wrap-around frames or side shields to guard against hazards from all directions. Regular sunglasses usually lack this feature, leaving wearers exposed to debris from the sides.

  1. High Impact Resistance  

   Safety glasses with polycarbonate lenses offer high impact resistance and are less likely to break upon contact with debris. This material is lightweight yet strong, ensuring tradespeople are well-protected.

  1. UV Protection  

   Look for safety glasses with UV400 lenses for complete UV protection. Prolonged exposure to UV rays can damage the eyes, so this feature is essential for outdoor work.

  1. Anti-Scratch and Anti-Fog Coatings  

   Lenses with anti-scratch coatings improve durability, while anti-fog coatings prevent lenses from steaming up in humid or variable conditions, maintaining clear vision throughout the workday.

  1. Comfortable Fit  

   Safety glasses should be comfortable enough for all-day wear. Features like a universal nose bridge and lightweight frame design help keep eyewear comfortable, even during long work shifts. 

Where Can I Buy Safety Sunglasses?

For those who work outdoors, safety sunglasses provide the protection of safety glasses with the added benefit of glare reduction, which is ideal for sunny environments. Safety sunglasses that meet AS/NZS 1337.1:2010 standards offer robust impact protection and shield eyes from harmful UV rays, making them an excellent choice for tradespeople needing both safety and sun protection.

Our range of safety sunglasses is developed by the team behind Spotters, an industry leader known for its advanced lens technology and over 25 years of expertise in the eyewear industry. The same commitment to quality, durability, and innovative design that Spotters is known for has gone into our safety sunglasses range. By choosing our safety sunglasses, you’re investing in eye protection that combines premium design and the durability required on the job site.

Additionally, all of our safety glasses and safety sunglasses are 100% tax-deductible, so you can protect your eyes while getting the most out of your investment. With features like scratch-resistant coatings and high-impact lenses, our safety sunglasses ensure tradespeople have reliable eye protection that stands up to daily wear.

Safety Sunglasses: A Superior Choice For Tradespeople

Regular sunglasses may offer basic UV protection, but they don’t provide the impact resistance and coverage that tradespeople need in high-risk environments. From construction sites to workshops, protective eyewear is a must for keeping eyes safe from debris, chemicals, and UV rays. When choosing safety glasses, it’s essential to look for standards compliance, impact resistance, UV protection, and comfort for all-day wear.

For those who work outdoors, safety sunglasses are the ideal solution, combining the same rigorous protection as safety glasses with added UV and glare protection. Our safety range, designed by the team behind Spotters Sunglasses, offers over 25 years of industry expertise in lens technology, giving you premium protection without compromise. Our AS/NZS 1337.1:2010-compliant safety sunglasses are the perfect choice for tradespeople who want both durability and style on the job.

Discover our range of safety glasses and safety sunglasses today, and experience the protection and quality trusted by tradespeople across Australia.

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