What Does ANSI Z87.1 Mean?
The ANSI Z87.1 standard, set by the American National Standards Institute, defines the minimum performance criteria for eye and face protection devices. It ensures that safety glasses, goggles, and face shields provide adequate protection against impact, optical distortion, and workplace hazards.
Simply put — if your eyewear doesn’t have an ANSI Z87.1 mark, it’s not certified to handle industrial risks. For employers, compliance isn’t optional — it’s a legal and ethical obligation to protect workers’ vision.
The Purpose and History of ANSI Standards
ANSI Z87.1 was first introduced in 1968 and has since evolved to reflect modern industrial needs.
Each revision focuses on improved safety and user comfort:
Version | Year | Key Improvement |
ANSI Z87.1-1989 | Introduced impact resistance testing | |
ANSI Z87.1-2003 | Added coverage and optical clarity standards | |
ANSI Z87.1-2010 | Separated high-impact vs basic-impact eyewear | |
ANSI Z87.1-2015 | Updated marking system and testing for new materials | |
ANSI Z87.1-2020 | Added side-shield coverage and dust protection |
The latest version (2020) aligns more closely with EN166 and CSA Z94.3, helping global manufacturers like EVERGREAT maintain multi-region compliance.
Key Testing Parameters for ANSI Z87.1 Compliance
Safety eyewear undergoes rigorous lab testing before it earns the ANSI marking.
Below are the major test categories required for certification:
1. Impact Resistance
- High-velocity test: A 6.35mm steel ball fired at 150 ft/s.
- High-mass test: A 500g pointed projectile dropped from 50 inches.
Only eyewear that withstands both tests earns the Z87+ label (for high-impact protection).
2. Optical Quality
Ensures the lenses don’t distort vision or cause eye strain. The optical clarity rating must meet ANSI-defined thresholds for refractive power and astigmatism.
3. Coverage and Side Protection
Frames are tested for coverage area to prevent debris from entering through the sides or bottom. Side shields or wraparound designs enhance compliance.
4. Markings and Labeling
Every certified eyewear piece includes ANSI Z87.1 markings on the frame or lens.
For example:
- Z87 – Basic impact protection
- Z87+ – High-impact protection
- D3 / D4 / D5 – Splash, dust, or fine particle resistance
- U6 – UV filter protection level
- W – Welding filter rating
ANSI vs. EN166 vs. CSA Z94.3: What’s the Difference?
While all three standards protect users, they vary slightly in testing scope and certification markings.
Feature | ANSI Z87.1 (USA) | EN166 (Europe) | CSA Z94.3 (Canada) |
Impact Test | High-velocity & high-mass | Low, medium, high energy | High-velocity only |
Marking | Z87 / Z87+ | 1F, 1B, 1A | CSA Z94.3 |
Focus | Industrial impact | Optical & chemical resistance | Industrial & military |
Lens Type | Polycarbonate emphasis | Various lens materials | Industrial-grade polycarbonate |
If your brand sells in multiple regions, dual-certified eyewear (ANSI + EN166) ensures full international compliance.
How EVERGREAT Ensures ANSI Z87.1 Compliance
EVERGREAT SAFETY integrates ANSI compliance at every production stage, from material selection to post-assembly inspection.
Here’s how they maintain certification consistency:
- Precision Lens Molding: Uses high-grade polycarbonate to resist impact.
- In-House Testing: Simulates ANSI high-velocity and optical clarity tests.
- Quality Control Inspections: Random sampling ensures no defective batches.
- Standardized Labeling: Every frame includes clear Z87 or Z87+ markings.
This commitment allows EVERGREAT’s safety eyewear to pass third-party laboratory testing and international audits, ensuring every shipment meets ANSI, EN, and CSA standards.
Why ANSI Z87.1 Compliance Matters for Businesses
ANSI-certified eyewear isn’t just about meeting regulations — it’s about brand reputation and liability protection.
Here’s why compliance is essential:
- Worker Safety: Reduces risk of injury and vision loss.
- Legal Protection: Meets OSHA workplace safety requirements.
- Brand Credibility: Demonstrates responsibility and professionalism.
- Market Expansion: Enables exports to U.S. and global markets.
Choosing an ANSI-certified manufacturer like EVERGREAT ensures peace of mind for distributors and end-users alike.
Related Articles
- How to Choose the Right Safety Glasses for Different Industries
- Customization Options & Advanced Technologies for Safety Glasses
- Applications & Benefits of Safety Goggles and Face Shields
FAQs About ANSI Z87.1 Safety Glasses
- What does the “Z87+” marking mean?
It indicates the eyewear meets high-impact resistance requirements beyond the basic ANSI Z87 standard. - Can ANSI-certified eyewear be customized?
Yes. EVERGREAT offers OEM/ODM customization while maintaining full ANSI compliance. - Are ANSI Z87.1 glasses suitable for welding or medical use?
Yes, provided they include additional markings such as “W” for welding or “D3” for splash protection. - How often should ANSI safety glasses be replaced?
Replace them immediately if scratched, cracked, or after any significant impact. - Does EVERGREAT manufacture ANSI-certified eyewear?
Yes — all EVERGREAT’s safety glasses undergo rigorous testing to meet ANSI, EN, and CSA requirements.
The ANSI Z87.1 standard remains the cornerstone of modern eye protection, safeguarding workers from impact, UV, and chemical exposure.
With EVERGREAT SAFETY’s certified eyewear solutions, businesses can ensure compliance, comfort, and uncompromised vision safety — across every industry.
Ready to ensure your eyewear meets ANSI Z87.1 standards?
Contact EVERGREAT SAFETY today to discuss customized, compliant eyewear solutions for your brand.
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