What is AS/NZS 1337?

Introduction

In the world of safety eyewear, standards play a crucial role in ensuring the protection and well-being of individuals. One such standard, AS/NZS 1337, focuses specifically on eye-protection equipment. In this article, we will delve into what AS/NZS 1337 entails, its importance, and how it benefits both workers and employers.

The Purpose of AS/NZS 1337

AS/NZS 1337, the Australian and New Zealand Standard for eye protectors, specifies the requirements and testing methods for personal protective equipment (PPE) designed to safeguard the eyes from various hazards. The purpose of this standard is twofold:

To establish minimum performance criteria for eye protectors.

To provide guidance on selecting appropriate eyewear for different tasks and environments.

By adhering to this standard, employers can ensure that the eyewear provided to their workers offers adequate protection against potential eye injuries.

Types of Eye Protectors Covered by AS/NZS 1337

AS/NZS 1337 covers a wide range of eye protection devices, including:

Safety glasses: These are commonly used for general-purpose eye protection. They feature impact-resistant lenses and may include side shields for additional coverage.

Goggles: Offering more extensive coverage than safety glasses, goggles protect the eyes from chemical splashes, dust, and other airborne particles.

Face shields: Providing full face protection, face shields are typically used in environments where there is a high risk of flying debris or liquid splashes.

Welding helmets: Designed specifically for welding applications, these helmets incorporate a shield to protect the eyes and face from intense light, sparks, and metal splatter.

All eye protectors covered by AS/NZS 1337 undergo rigorous testing to ensure compliance with the standard's requirements.

The Benefits of Compliance

Compliance with AS/NZS 1337 brings several benefits to both employers and workers:

Enhanced safety: By providing eyewear that meets the standard, employers can significantly reduce the risk of eye injuries in the workplace.

Legal compliance: Adherence to AS/NZS 1337 helps organizations fulfill their legal obligations regarding the provision of appropriate PPE.

Improved productivity: Workers equipped with proper eye protection are more confident and can perform their tasks efficiently without concerns about potential hazards.

Cost savings: Preventing eye injuries through the use of compliant eye protectors can save organizations from expensive medical costs, compensation claims, and productivity losses.

In conclusion, AS/NZS 1337 plays a vital role in setting the benchmark for eye protection equipment, ensuring the safety and well-being of employees. Employers should prioritize compliance with this standard to create a safe working environment and safeguard their workers' vision.