Quick Answer
Regular sunglasses are not sufficient to protect against sandstorms, as they are designed to filter out UV radiation and glare, not airborne particles. Sandstorms can cause eye irritation and damage due to the small particles and wind-borne debris. In such conditions, specialized eye protection is essential.
Choosing the Right Eye Protection for Sandstorms
When it comes to protecting your eyes in a sandstorm, choose goggles or glasses with a dust or sand-filtering lens. This type of lens is designed to block out particles as small as 10 microns in diameter, which is smaller than the particles that cause eye irritation. Look for goggles or glasses with a rating of ANSI Z87.1 or higher, which indicates that they meet the standards for impact and penetration resistance.
Understanding Sandstorm Eye Protection Ratings
When selecting eye protection for a sandstorm, pay attention to the rating and the type of lens used. A lens with a higher rating will provide better protection against airborne particles. Some common ratings include:
- ANSI Z87.1: Impact and penetration resistance
- AS/NZS 1337: Impact resistance
- EN 166: Optical clarity and impact resistance Choose goggles or glasses that meet the highest rating possible for your needs.
Additional Tips for Sandstorm Eye Protection
In addition to choosing the right goggles or glasses, consider the following tips for protecting your eyes in a sandstorm:
- Wear goggles or glasses with a secure fit to prevent debris from entering the eye
- Avoid touching your eyes or face while in a sandstorm to prevent transferring particles to your eyes
- Consider wearing a face mask to protect your eyes and face from airborne particles
- Stay indoors or in a vehicle until the storm passes
- Use a wet cloth to wipe down goggles or glasses to prevent sand and dust from accumulating on the lens.
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