75 The eye is a sensitive sensory organ and must be reliably protected against harmful external influences in everyday working environments. The most important aspects of choosing safety goggles are their safety, fit and wearing comfort. Normative principles EN 166 - Personal eye protection For over two decades, EN 166 was the central European standard for safety goggles. It defines requirements for: • Mechanical strength and impact protection • Optical properties (clear view, distortion-free) • Basic protective functions against particles, chemicals or splashes Note: Filter values (UV, IR, welding) are regulated in supplementary standards (e.g. EN 169, EN 170). EN ISO 16321:2022 - The new international standard Since May 2023, the EN ISO 16321 series of standards (legally binding from November 2024) has replaced EN 166. It harmonises requirements worldwide and introduces extended test procedures and labelling. Key new features of EN ISO 16321 1. Better fit Six probe sizes instead of two for more realistic coverage testing. 2. Revised impact tests Larger, heavier test projectiles; new protection levels C, D, E for higher energies and new protection zones. 3. New filter labelling UV protection now as U-values (U1.2-U5); IR and welding filters more clearly structured. 4. Optional protective features unchanged K (scratch-resistant), N (anti-fog), CH (chemical resistance), HM (heat protection). Transition phase EN 166 products may still be used and sold until their certificates expire, which is why EN 166 and EN ISO 16321 are currently being used in parallel. Summary EN ISO 16321 offers higher testing standards, clearer labelling and better fit assessment - a plus for safety, comfort and international comparability. Labelling of safety goggles: Markings on the lens and frame show the manufacturer, optical class (1-3), impact resistance (C, D, E), filter markings (UV, IR, welding) and optional features (K, N, CH, HM). Important information about safety goggles
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