Personal Protective Equipment
Eye & Face
Protection
Protection
OSHA 1926.102 · ANSI/ISEA Z87.1 · NYC BC Chapter 33 — Side Shields Required for Grinding
Eye injuries are among the most common and most preventable injuries on NYC construction sites. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that 2,000 workers suffer job-related eye injuries every single day nationwide — 90% of which could have been prevented with proper eye protection. No eye protection = no access to the work area.
When Is Eye Protection Required?
- At all times in designated eye hazard areas (posted with signage)
- Any overhead work — concrete, welding, cutting, spray painting
- All grinding, cutting, chipping, nailing, and demolition operations
- Working near or handling chemicals, concrete, adhesives, or curing compounds
- Any work where flying debris, dust, or sparks are present
Selecting the Right Protection
- Safety glasses (ANSI Z87.1+): Basic protection for low-velocity debris. Side shields required for grinding and overhead work
- Safety goggles: Required for chemical splash, heavy dust, and when contaminants can get around standard glasses. Indirect-vent goggles for chemical splash
- Face shield: Over safety glasses/goggles for grinding larger pieces, chipping concrete, and chemical pours — face shield alone is NOT adequate without glasses underneath
- Welding shade: Shade #10 for MIG/TIG; #12–14 for plasma cutting; auto-darkening helmets allowed if ANSI-rated
Eyewash Station Requirements
- An eyewash station is required within 10 seconds travel time from any area where corrosive materials are used
- Know exactly where the nearest eyewash station is before handling any chemical
- If chemical enters your eyes: flush immediately with clean water for 15 full minutes, then seek medical evaluation — even if it "feels fine"
ANSI Z87.1 — What That Marking Means
- "Z87+" marking on the lens and frame confirms ANSI High Impact rating — the minimum for construction sites
- "Z87" alone (no plus sign) is the basic impact rating — not adequate for grinding or high-velocity debris
- Replace safety glasses immediately if lenses are scratched, pitted, or cracked — compromised optics also compromise impact resistance
Discussion Questions
- You're using a face shield while chipping concrete. Do you still need safety glasses underneath? Why?
- What does the "+" in "Z87+" indicate on safety eyewear?
- How long do you flush your eyes if concrete splashes into them, and what do you do after?
- Name three tasks in our current scope of work that require safety goggles rather than just safety glasses.
Sign-Off
Project Address
Date
Time
Foreman / Supervisor
SSM / SSC Name & License No.
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