What Are Ultraviolet Protective Glasses?
Ultraviolet protective glasses are glasses that protect the eyes from ultraviolet (UV) radiation.
Ultraviolet rays, part of the electromagnetic waves emitted by the sun, are in the ultraviolet region and have wavelengths shorter than visible light. Prolonged exposure to UV radiation can cause a variety of health problems to the skin and eyes, so appropriate UV protection should be taken. UV protective eyewear can be used to prevent UV exposure to the eyes.
Exposure to sunlight and glare can cause eye fatigue and stress. UV protective eyewear can be used to reduce glare and ensure comfortable vision.
Uses for UV Protective Glasses
UV protective eyewear is used for a variety of purposes. The following are just a few examples of uses for UV protective glasses:
1. Construction Industry
Because construction workers typically work outdoors and are exposed to increased UV radiation from the sun, it is recommended that they wear UV protective eyewear. This protects workers’ eyes and prevents eye health problems.
2. Agriculture
Agricultural workers require working outdoors for extended periods of time. Due to prolonged exposure to sunlight, UV protective eyewear may be required during agricultural work. They also help protect the eyes from pesticides and chemicals.
3. Medical Care
Dentists often use UV curing materials in dental procedures. These materials harden when exposed to ultraviolet light and serve to reinforce the teeth. When working with UV-curing materials, dentists need to protect their own eyes from UV light when treating patients’ teeth.
Dermatologists may also perform phototherapy when diagnosing and treating skin diseases. In these cases, UV irradiation is necessary, and medical personnel use UV protective eyewear to protect their eyes while treating patients.
4. Food Industry
In the food manufacturing industry, UV germicidal lamps are used to sterilize surfaces such as package containers. This prevents microbial growth and contamination and maintains product quality. It is recommended that workers working around this equipment wear UV protective eyewear to protect their eyes.
Principles of UV Protective eyewear
The lenses of UV protective eyewear have the ability to filter out specific UV wavelengths. This is achieved by applying a special coating to the lens or by using a special material; UV filtering prevents UV rays from passing through the glasses, thus preventing direct exposure of the eyes to UV rays.
UV protective eyewear is designed to block UV rays while allowing visible light to pass through. They protect the eyes from UV rays without affecting everyday vision or visual quality. This enables the function of providing vision as a pair of spectacles.
Other UV glasses that absorb UV rays are also available. Absorbing ultraviolet protective eyewear works by drawing ultraviolet rays into the lens and absorbing them, thereby protecting the eyes.
How to Select UV-Protective Glasses
When choosing UV protective eyewear, several important factors should be considered. The following are key factors in selecting UV protective eyewear:
1. Size
The frame size of the glasses is an important factor in selecting the right product for the shape of the face. If the frames do not fit, comfort and protection may be compromised. It is important to select the appropriate size by checking the width of the frames and it is recommended to try on the frames to check the fit.
2. Ultraviolet Ray Cutoff Rate
One of the most important features of UV protective eyewear is the UV cut-off rate. The UV cutoff rate is indicated on the label or description of the glasses, so choose a product with a high cutoff rate (usually 99% or higher).
3. Material
Frame material is an indicator that affects durability and comfort. Common materials include plastic and titanium. Choosing a lightweight, durable material will ensure comfort during prolonged use.
Lens material is also important in protecting the eyes. Polycarbonate and other materials that are lightweight and strong are generally used.