EN166 - 1 FT

EN 166:2002

Personal Eye Protection - Specification and Marking

This part of the standard specifies the requirements for personal eye protection devices, including safety glasses and face shields designed to protect the wearer against mechanical, thermal, and optical hazards in the workplace.

Products claiming compliance with this standard must meet specified criteria for optical quality, impact resistance, resistance to molten metal splashes, and temperature endurance.

Marking on eye protectors includes information on optical class, mechanical strength, temperature resistance, and resistance to molten metal adhesion to ensure proper product classification and safe use.

The letters and numbers in the “FTKN” designation represent specific features of the eyewear, indicating protection against particular hazards:

F (Low Energy Impact): This indicates that the safety glasses can withstand an impact from small objects traveling at speeds of up to 45 m/s. This is crucial in environments where debris, dust, or other fast-moving particles are a risk.

T (Extreme Temperature): This means that the glasses maintain their protective properties even at extreme temperatures, from -5°C to +55°C. This is important for outdoor and industrial environments subject to fluctuating temperatures.

K (Resistance to Surface Damage by Fine Particles): EN 166-certified safety glasses with “K” markings have been tested to resist scratches, providing a clearer view and improved durability, even when working in dusty or abrasive conditions.

N (Anti-Fog Coating): The “N” marking indicates that the glasses have a certified anti-fog coating, ensuring clarity of vision even when workers are exposed to temperature changes, humidity, or strenuous activity.

For example, the marking 1 FT (EN166 - 1 FT) on protective eyewear implies:

1: Optical Class 1, suitable for permanent wear with distortion-free optics.

F: Low energy impact resistance, tested with a steel ball at 45 m/s.

T: Maintains integrity at extreme temperatures (-5°C to +55°C), making it suitable for varied environmental conditions.