Choosing safety glasses: ANSI Z87.1 markings and lens tints
Last updated 2026-11-09
Safety glasses for work should be marked Z87, which means they meet the ANSI/ISEA Z87.1 standard for eye and face protection. Look for Z87+, which means they also passed high-impact testing, for most jobsite and shop work. Where your employer, site or OSHA assessment calls for specific eyewear, use exactly that.
Markings on the frame and lens
| Marking | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Z87 | Meets the basic impact requirements |
| Z87+ | Meets high-impact requirements |
| D3 | Protects against splashes and droplets (goggles) |
| D4 | Protects against dust (goggles) |
| D5 | Protects against fine dust (goggles) |
| U and a number | Ultraviolet filter, with its scale number |
| W and a number | Welding filter shade number |
| V | Variable tint (photochromic) |
| S | Special-purpose lens tint |
Lens tints
- Clear: indoor work and general use.
- Gray or smoke: bright outdoor light; cuts glare without changing colors much.
- Amber or yellow: low light and overcast days; increases contrast.
- Indoor/outdoor (light mirror): for people moving between inside and out, such as forklift and dock work.
- Anti-fog coating: helps in humid areas and when wearing a mask.
Glasses, goggles or a face shield?
- Safety glasses: flying particles and general impact hazards.
- Goggles: chemical splash, dust and fine dust (look for D3, D4 or D5), or when particles could get around glasses.
- Face shield: grinding, cutting and chemical pouring. Always wear safety glasses or goggles under a face shield; a shield alone isn't primary eye protection.
- Welding: use a welding helmet or goggles with the filter shade the process requires; see welding safety.
People who wear prescription glasses can use over-the-glass (OTG) safety glasses that fit over their own frames.
Shop eye and face protection, hearing protection and head protection and hi-vis.
Common questions
What is the difference between Z87 and Z87+?
Z87 glasses meet the basic impact test. Z87+ glasses also pass the high-impact tests, so they're the usual choice for shop and jobsite work.
Are sunglasses safety glasses?
Only if they're marked Z87 (or Z87+). Ordinary sunglasses aren't impact-rated. Gray or smoke-tinted Z87+ safety glasses work for bright outdoor jobs.
Can I wear safety glasses over my prescription glasses?
Yes, with over-the-glass (OTG) safety glasses made to fit over prescription frames. Prescription safety glasses are another option.
Need help?
We supply safety eyewear for crews and can set it up in a PPE vending machine: call (908) 824-0916 or send us a message. See also choosing work gloves.