When safety glasses are required, there's always a reason. Eye protection is essential for workplace safety because eye injuries are often irreversible. Whether it's from flying splinters, chemical splashes, or optical radiation, the right protection prevents serious injuries. In this article, you'll learn all about the legal framework of the Dutch Working Conditions Act (Arbowet), who is responsible for purchasing them, and how to choose the right glasses for your specific work environment.
When are safety glasses required?
Under the Working Conditions Act and the Working Conditions Decree, employers are required to provide personal protective equipment (PPE) whenever risks arise that cannot be addressed at source. When safety glasses must be made mandatory is determined by the Risk Inventory and Evaluation (RI&E).
Specific examples of activities requiring eye protection include grinding, drilling, chiseling, working with hazardous liquids, or exposure to intense light, such as welding. As soon as the Risk Assessment & Evaluation (RI&E) indicates a risk to the eyes, the use of safety glasses is a legal requirement.
Are safety glasses mandatory in the workplace?
Safety glasses aren't mandatory everywhere, but only where specific risks are present. Employers determine the risks based on job functions and work environments. In a warehouse where only sealed packaging is used, glasses are often unnecessary, but in an adjacent workshop where metalworking is performed, they are. To avoid confusion, safety glasses are often required in such locations. This makes it immediately clear that you are entering a danger zone where protection is required.
What does the safety glasses mandatory pictogram mean?
The mandatory safety glasses pictogram is a blue, round mandatory sign with a white image of glasses. This sign is mandatory. When this mandatory safety glasses pictogram is visible, it means that everyone, including management, temporary staff, and visitors, must wear them. Ignoring this symbol can lead not only to injury but also to labor law consequences or fines from the Labor Inspectorate.
Who is responsible: employer or employee?
The question of "when are safety glasses mandatory?" also entails obligations for both parties. The employer is responsible for providing approved safety glasses free of charge, providing clear instructions on their use, and monitoring compliance. However, the employee has a legal obligation to actually and correctly use the provided PPE. Therefore, as an employee, you cannot simply refuse to wear glasses if the employer has made them mandatory based on the Risk Inventory and Evaluation (RI&E).
Which safety glasses do you need for your work?
The right safety glasses depend on the work and the risks involved.
- Dust or splinters : Safety glasses with side shields protect against flying particles.
- Chemicals or liquids : Choose goggles that fit snugly around the face to keep out splashes.
- Welding work : Use welding goggles with special filters to protect the eyes from bright light and radiation.
- Check the EN 166 standard : This European standard guarantees that the glasses meet the requirements for strength and optical quality.
Prescription safety glasses: what are the rules?
For employees who wear glasses, prescription safety glasses are mandatory whenever they work in an area requiring eye protection. Regular prescription glasses offer no safety guarantee; the lens can shatter upon impact. Employers are required to provide prescription safety glasses when over-the-glasses (wearing over the glasses) hinder work or are uncomfortable during prolonged use. Custom-fit prescription safety glasses increase wearing comfort and thus the employee's willingness to actually wear them.
See here what we can offer for prescription safety glasses .
Buy safety glasses at Unishore Workwear
When safety glasses are mandatory in your company, you want to rely on a partner who understands all aspects of safety standards and comfort. Unishore Workwear is that complete supplier. With our wide range of top brands, fast delivery, and in-depth knowledge of PPE, we ensure your team always works safely and in accordance with the Dutch Working Conditions Act. Whether you need standard glasses, goggles, or prescription safety glasses, we take care of everything for you.
