What is the EN 166 standardisation?

We are known for providing high quality prescription safety glasses that always meet today's stringent standards. What are these standards? Read more about European standards in this knowledge article.

NEN-EN 166

The NEN-EN 166 lists the basic properties that all eye protection equipment must meet. Eye protection consists of two main parts, namely lenses of mineral glass or plastic and the frame of metal or plastic. Both parts must meet the inspection requirements in order for the glasses to be called safety glasses.

EN 166:2001 is the European standard that covers the requirements for safety glasses. This standard is closely related to EN 167:2001 and EN 168:2001 which specify optical and non-optical test methods.

Safety glasses with EN 166 requirements

EN 166 specifies the minimum requirements for a set of performance tests. This standard contains a set of requirements that can be considered mandatory. According to the 2018 Occupational Health and Safety Guide, frames intended for safety glasses should meet these requirements:

• General conditions: equipped with safety glass (EN166).
• Mechanical strength (EN 166): drop test with a ball of 43 grams, drop height 130cm. The requirement must be met at -5 degrees Celcius and at 55 degrees.
• Flammability requirement.
• Corrosion resistance.
• The parts in contact with the skin must not be allergenic or irritating.
• The glasses should be easily disinfectable.
• The glasses must be able to be fitted by an optician.

If all the above requirements are met, the frame is approved. After this approval, the CE mark may be affixed. The frames of Seeh's safety glasses always meet these strictly standardised requirements.

The EN 166 in comparison with other standards

While the European EN 166 standard sets a strict set of requirements for safety eyewear, including tests for mechanical strength and protection against chemicals, the United States maintains its own standard, known as the ANSI Z87.1. This U.S. standard also emphasizes the need for impact protection and provides guidance for different levels of protection depending on the specific risks in the workplace. While both standards are aimed at ensuring user safety, the specific testing methods and certification processes vary between regions.

FAQ

When are safety glasses certified?

Safety glasses are considered certified when they meet the EN 166 standard, which means that they have both passed the mandatory performance tests and are marked with the CE mark, indicating that they meet all European safety and health requirements.

Is an EN 166 mandatory?

Yes, in Europe it is mandatory that safety glasses comply with the EN 166 standard. This guarantees that the goggles provide adequate protection against potential workplace hazards, such as mechanical impact and chemical exposure.

How can I recognise safety glasses EN 166 standard?

Safety glasses that comply with the EN 166 standard can be recognized by the markings on both the lenses and the frame. These include the EN 166 certification number, the manufacturer's code, and often additional symbols that indicate the specific levels of protection. In addition, the CE mark must be present, which indicates that the product complies with European regulations.

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