The 11 Best Safety Glasses for Construction Workers

Construction work can be a dangerous profession, and eye injuries are all too common. Wearing protective eyewear can significantly reduce the risk of eye injuries. This helps protect workers’ vision.

In this article, we’ll share some reasons why construction workers must wear eye protection. Then, we’ll list the features you might need in a pair of safety glasses before reviewing the top 11 options. Let’s get started.

Why Wear Safety Glasses in Construction Work?

Construction is a physically demanding and hazardous industry, and eye injuries are frequent. About 2,000 construction workers suffer from eye injuries each day in the United States. Ninety percent of which could be avoided by wearing eye protection. These injuries can range from minor irritations to serious and vision-threatening.

But why are eye injuries so common in construction work? One reason is the nature of the work itself. Construction sites can be chaotic environments. They are home to a variety of hazards. This includes power tools, heavy machinery, and loose or airborne debris. 

In addition, construction workers may be exposed to harmful materials. For example, chemicals and welding fumes can irritate or damage the eyes.

Safety glasses are an essential part of personal protective equipment (PPE) in construction. They are designed to protect the eyes from various potential hazards. But, despite the risks, many construction workers still don’t wear protective eyewear. 

According to a survey by the Labor Department’s Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), at the time of an accident, three out of every five injured workers were not wearing eye protection. This is a concerning statistic. Wearing safety glasses in construction work is essential for preventing eye injuries.

Safety glasses can help keep your eyes safe and healthy. This applies whether you are working with power tools or handling dangerous materials. Don’t take the risk. Always wear protective eyewear when required. And always follow personal protective equipment guidelines to ensure your safety.

Features to Consider When Choosing a Pair of Safety Glasses

Choosing a pair of safety glasses that meet your needs is crucial to your safety. Here are some key features to consider when selecting a pair of safety glasses:

Polarized lenses

Polarized lenses are made with a special filter that helps to reduce glare. This improves visual clarity by blocking intense, reflected light. This filter is particularly effective in outdoor environments, where glare from the sun can be a problem.

Besides reducing glare, polarized lenses improve contrast and reduce eye strain. This makes them an excellent choice for tasks that require precise vision. Think welding, cutting, or operating machinery. Some other benefits of polarized lenses include increased safety. 

That’s why they are a popular choice among construction workers. Other professionals who work in outdoor environments also choose polarized lenses.

Tinted lenses

There are many options available for tinted safety glasses lenses. Each color has its own benefits depending on the lighting conditions and tasks at hand. 

Yellow lenses, for instance, are ideal for low light conditions. They help to improve contrast and reduce eye strain. On the other hand, amber lenses are particularly useful for outdoor work. They help to block out harsh glare and enhance visual clarity in bright sunlight.

Tinted lenses can be a great choice for workers who need extra protection against bright or harsh lighting conditions. They can be beneficial for tasks requiring precise vision or concentration. Whether you need a pair of safety glasses for indoor or outdoor work, tinted lens options are available to suit your needs.

Anti-fog coating

In humid or high-temperature environments, it’s common for glasses to fog up. This can obstruct your vision and make it difficult to see. To prevent this, many safety glasses have an anti-fog coating that helps keep the lenses clear. If you need to see clearly while performing tasks like welding or cutting, anti-fog safety glasses are a must-have.

Prescription options

Safety glasses with prescription options can be a convenient and practical choice. These glasses allow you to wear your existing glasses underneath the safety glasses. This provides protection and clear vision.

When choosing a pair of prescription safety glasses, ensure they meet the necessary safety standards for your work environment. Also, check that they fit comfortably and securely over your prescription glasses. Finally, look for a lens material that is durable and impact-resistant. Polycarbonate is a good option.

UV protection

UV protection is integral to any pair of safety glasses. It helps to safeguard your eyes against harmful UV rays. 

These rays can cause eye strain, irritation, and long-term damage. So opt for a pair of glasses that block out a high percentage of UV rays. This is especially important for outdoor work or tasks that involve prolonged exposure to sunlight, such as the following:

• Pouring concrete
• Assembling scaffolding
• Operating heavy machinery
• Painting or staining wood
• Installing roofing materials
• Laying brick or stone
• Landscaping tasks, such as mowing or using a leaf blower

Other features to consider

In addition to the above features, consider durability and comfort. Choose a pair made with durable materials, such as polycarbonate frames. This will help them withstand construction work and other demanding environments.

It’s also important to look for a pair of safety glasses that are comfortable to wear for long periods. This can help prevent fatigue and ensure that you can focus on your work without distraction.

Additionally, you may want to consider other features, such as the following:

• Lens material (e.g., select lenses that are durable and impact-resistant)
• Style of the frame (e.g., wraparound styles provide more protection from the sides)
• Whether the glasses come with a storage case or cleaning cloth

Ultimately, the best safety glasses for you will depend on your specific needs and the tasks you’ll be performing. By considering all these features, you can ensure that you choose a pair of safety glasses that offer protection and comfort. This allows you to get the job done safely and efficiently.

The Best Safety Glasses for Construction Workers

Choosing the right pair of safety glasses can be a daunting task with so many options available. However, some models stand out among construction workers as the best fit for their needs. 

These popular safety glasses are designed to provide reliable protection on the job site. They offer a range of features to suit different tasks and environments. Whether you need polarized lenses to reduce glare, anti-fog coating for humid climates, or UV protection for outdoor work, there is a pair of safety glasses that can meet your needs. 

Here are some of the most popular choices among construction workers:

1. 3M Virtua CCS Safety Glasses with Foam Gasket

The 3M Virtua CCS Safety Glasses are lightweight and comfortable. They feature a wraparound style for maximum protection. The polycarbonate lenses block 99.9% of UVA, UVB, and UVC rays. And, they have an anti-scratch coating and anti-fog protection. 

The glasses also have a foam gasket that you can remove and reattach as needed. This helps to form a seal against dust, smaller debris, and splashes. They have a cord attachment for securing earplugs, too, and can be worn with or without earplugs as a lanyard. 

These glasses meet ANSI Z87.1-2020 high-impact requirements. You can find them in three different frame and lens color combinations.

Features at a glance:

• Lightweight and comfortable
• A wraparound style for maximum protection
• Polycarbonate lenses with anti-scratch coating and anti-fog protection
• Removable foam gasket for a seal against dust, small debris, and airborne fluids
• Optional cord attachment for earplugs
• Meets ANSI Z87.1-2020 high-impact requirements
• Available in three frame and lens color combinations

Drawbacks:

• Not polarized
• Frame not adjustable for fit

2. SolidWork Safety Goggles

The SolidWork Safety Goggles provide complete protection from dust, liquids, chemicals, or debris. They can be worn over prescription glasses or on their own. 

These safety glasses are designed with comfort in mind. The adjustable band ensures a secure and personalized fit. At the same time, the soft material between the frame and your face provides a protective seal. 

The polycarbonate lenses are strong and scratch-resistant. The anti-fog coating should, in theory, keep them clear in humid conditions. The lenses also block harmful UV rays and reduce glare, making them suitable for a variety of tasks. 

The panoramic design offers full protection from irritants and particles. Finally, the wraparound style ensures complete coverage.

Features at a glance:

• Fits over most prescription glasses
• Super-soft rubber material between frame and face
• Comfortable, adjustable band that wraps around the head
• ANSI-certified polycarbonate lenses that resist scratching and have a special anti-fog coating
• Blocks UV rays and minimizes glare
• Panoramic design for a wide field of vision

Drawbacks:

• May be prone to fogging

3. Ergodyne Skullerz Safety Glasses

The Ergodyne Skullerz Safety Glasses are a stylish and protective pair of eye protection. They offer polarized lenses that reduce glare and reflected light. They also have a scratch-resistant and UV-protective coating. This blocks 99.9% of UV rays. 

These glasses adhere to stringent ANSI Z87.1+ safety standards and MIL-PRF 32432 Ballistic Impact standards for impact resistance. Plus they feature a lightweight, flexible nylon frame. The frame is capable of standing up to hard use. It’s complete with soft rubber pieces at the bridge of the nose and temples to prevent slipping. This also enhances comfort. 

The glasses are available in a wide range of frame and lens colors.

Features at a glance:

• Polarized lenses that minimize glare
• Scratch-resistant coating
• UV protective coating that blocks 99.9% of UV rays
• Meets ANSI Z87.1+ standards for safety and MIL-PRF 32432 Ballistic Impact standards for impact resistance
• Lightweight, flexible yet durable nylon frame
• Available in a wide range of frame and lens colors

Drawbacks:

• Not anti-fog
• Expensive

4. 3M Nuvo Reader Protective Eyewear

The 3M Nuvo Reader Protective Eyewear is a handy pair of glasses. They combine eye protection with the ability to read small print. These safety readers offer three magnifying strengths: +1.5, +2, and +2.5. The magnifying part of the lenses is a bifocal insert. It sits at the bottom of the lenses, so no prescription is required. 

The polycarbonate lenses meet ANSI and CSA requirements for protection against impacts. They also block almost 100% of UV rays and have an anti-scratch and anti-fog coating. These glasses provide a comfortable fit thanks to adjustable temples and a soft nose piece. 

The wraparound style includes a brow bar and side shields to protect your eyes from hazards coming from all directions.

Features at a glance:

• Marries eye protection with reading glasses
• Available in three magnifying strengths (no prescription required)
• Polycarbonate lenses that meet ANSI and CSA requirements for high-impact protection and block almost 100% of UV rays
• Anti-scratch and anti-fog coating
• Adjustable temples
• Wraparound style with protective brow bar and side shields

Drawbacks:

• The nose piece may fall apart easily

5. NoCry Safety Glasses

The NoCry Safety Glasses offer good protection for tasks unlikely to result in an impact. This includes smaller-scale DIY projects, medical or dental work, or working in dusty conditions. They are not heavy and offer a wraparound design. This keeps you comfortable while still providing adequate protection.

Features at a glance:

• Adjustable side pieces and nose bridge for a customizable fit
• Scratch-resistant and good anti-fog resistance
• Blocks 90-100% of UV rays
• Available in multiple frame and lens colors

Drawbacks:

• Not ANSI-certified for high-impact eye and face protection

6. RX Safety Custom Safety Glasses

The RX Safety Custom Safety Glasses allow you to combine your prescription glasses with safety glasses. This results in a convenient and comfortable fit. The ordering process involves choosing your frame and lens type. Then, you enter your eye prescription information. 

The glasses have TR-90 nylon arms and a customizable nose piece. This makes them suitable for all genders, face shapes, and head sizes. The ANSI-approved safety glasses feature big frames and secure wraparound shields. Harmful chemicals, particles, dust, and other eye irritants are blocked. 

They are ideal for construction projects involving power tools. They are also effective for other dangerous fields.

Features at a glance:

• Customizable glasses that can be worn over prescription glasses
• Adjustable TR-90 nylon arms and nose piece for a comfortable fit
• ANSI-approved
• Suitable for various face shapes and head sizes

Drawbacks:

• Expensive

7. NoCry Over-Glasses Safety Glasses

The NoCry Over-Glasses Safety Glasses are an affordable and convenient option. They are ideal for those who need prescription glasses and require protective eyewear. These glasses offer thorough protection against flying debris. This includes dust, fluids, and chemicals. 

The robust polycarbonate frame and clear wraparound lenses provide exceptional scratch resistance. They also prevent nearly 100% of UV rays from reaching your eyes. The soft tips do a great job of minimizing pressure around the temples. All-day comfort is guaranteed. You can adjust the extendable arms to cater to various head sizes. 

These glasses are also certified by ANSI, CSA, and OSHA and fit over the top of most prescription glasses. Just check your glasses are less than 5.7 inches wide, 1.37 inches high at the outer lens, and 1.77 inches high at the inner lens before purchasing.

Features at a glance:

• Affordable for prescription glasses wearers
• Protects against dust, debris, fluids, and chemicals
• Polycarbonate frame and clear wraparound lenses
• Lenses resist scratching and block 100% of UV rays
• Soft tips minimize pressure on temples
• Adjustable arms fit various head sizes and can be worn alone
• Certified safe by ANSI, CSA, and OSHA
• Fit over most regular prescription glasses

Drawbacks:

• Not anti-fog

8. Carhartt Force Eyewear Safety Glasses

The Carhartt Force Eyewear Safety Glasses are stylish and protective sunglasses. They feature a nylon frame designed to flex and a rubber bridge that fits securely. It feels comfortable, and stays put, even if you tend to sweat on the job. 

The soft, curving nature of the frame allows these glasses to protect your eyes from all angles. The polycarbonate lenses are scratch-resistant. They block 99% of the sun’s UVA and UVB rays. 

As a bonus, they also protect you against UVC radiation. This comes from things like lamps and lasers, which can also be harmful. They also prohibit up to 87% of blue light from electronic devices from reaching your eyes. 

The sandstone-bronze lens is ideal for outdoor wear and looks great. But the glasses also come with clear or gray lenses.

Features at a glance:

• Stylish design
• Flexible nylon frame and soft rubber bridge for comfort and stability
• Curved frame for side protection
• Scratch-resistant polycarbonate lenses that block 99% UVA and UVB rays and UVC radiation
• Blocks 87% of blue light
• Available in sandstone-bronze, clear, or gray lenses

Drawbacks:

• May be prone to scratching
• Nose pads may fall off easily

9. The LeonDesigns Blue-Light Blocking Safety Glasses

The LeonDesigns Blue-Light Blocking Safety Glasses provide stylish protection. They block dust, airborne fluids, and chemical splashes. These glasses offer blue-light-blocking and UV400 lenses. These stop an impressive 100% of blue light and UV rays. 

They also feature an anti-fog and anti-scratch coating. The transparent side shield provides extra protection. It extends all the way around the lens. These glasses are a hybrid between safety glasses and goggles. 

The glasses come in several colors and are crafted of impact-resistant polycarbonate.

Features at a glance:

• Stylish appearance
• Blocks 100% of blue light and UV rays
• Transparent side shield provides extra protection

Drawbacks:

• Not ANSI certified
• Lenses can pop out easily
• Can fog up easily

10. Gateway Safety 6980 Safety Glasses

The Gateway Safety 6980 Safety Glasses are another great choice. They are ideal for those who wear prescription glasses and need protective eyewear. These glasses are designed to fit over all prescription glasses. They safeguard both the eyes and the glasses. 

They have a lightweight design and flexible tips. This ensures comfort even when worn for long periods of time. The glasses are ANSI certified. They don’t distort vision clarity. This makes them suitable for both general-purpose and indoor applications.

Features at a glance:

• Protects both eyes and prescription glasses
• Fits over all prescription glasses
• Lightweight design and flexible tips for comfort
• ANSI certified
• Suitable for general-purpose and indoor applications

Drawbacks:

• May be prone to scratching

11. Gateway Safety StarLite XC Safety Glasses

The Gateway Safety StarLite XC Safety Glasses are designed to provide excellent protection. They stop dust, flying debris, fluids, and chemicals. They feature a resilient polycarbonate frame and clear wraparound lenses. The lenses resist scratching and block up to 100% of UV rays. 

The glasses have soft tips to reduce uncomfortable pressure around the temples. The extendable arms accommodate different head sizes. They can be worn as regular safety glasses with or without a prescription pair underneath. And they are certified safe by ANSI, CSA, and OSHA.

Features at a glance:

• Lightweight and flexible design
• ANSI-certified for high-impact protection
• Scratch-resistant lenses
• UV protective coating that blocks 99.9% of UV rays
• Meets MIL-PRF 32432 Ballistic Impact standards for impact resistance
• Durable nylon frame with rubber pieces at the bridge of the nose and temples to prevent slipping
• Available in a wide range of frame and lens colors

Drawbacks:

• Bulky design, which could affect the fit and comfort
• Prone to fogging in humid environments

Protecting Your Eyes on the Job

There are many great options to choose from. When selecting a pair, consider your specific needs. Think about the features that best suit your work environment and tasks.

In addition to selecting high-quality safety glasses, always follow personal protective equipment guidelines. Check and maintain your safety glasses. This ensures they are in good condition. Taking these precautions can help protect your vision and prevent eye injuries.