uvexsplash.jpg (4778 bytes)Splash Goggles
whennec.bmp (334 bytes) Splash goggles are necessary for any task which could result in liquid splashes to the eye that might not be prevented by safety glasses (even with side shields).  The hazard assessment and standard operating procedure relevant to the work at hand will prescribe chemical splash goggles vs. safety glasses (with or without side shields) depending usually on the volume of liquid in use and the hazards.  A good rule is to define the "splash zone" as anywhere within ten feet (unshielded) of any handling or reaction involving 50 mL of any harmful liquid (corrosive, organic, toxic...), and make the rule that anyone in the splash zone must be wearing splash goggles.
whatnec.bmp (402 bytes)  ANSI approved chemical splash goggles.  Worn properly.  Splash goggles are not directly vented, sometimes not vented at all.  "Worn correctly" means no gaps that liquid could enter.  When worn properly, splash goggles will protect the eyes and surrounding skin from forcefully propelled liquids coming from any direction above, below, beside, or behind to wearer.
dondoff.bmp (538 bytes)
goggles are properly worn when they are comfortably situated on head/face in a position that prevents the possibility of any splashed liquid reaching either eye from any location (a big splash from the side, or liquid dribbling or gushing down from the top of your head...)  Visually inspect all eye protection for damage before use and after removal.  If there is an elastic band it should be springy and firm, or it should be replaced before the eyewear is used.  Do not use eyewear with cracks or weaknesses.   If the goggles have breathervent-covers that can be turned inside out, do not use the goggles with the vent-covers turned inside out.  This increases ventilation but completely destroys the indirect (baffled) air path which makes them splash goggles.
limitations.bmp (266 bytes) Goggles will not protect against "explosions" of liquids.   ("Explosion" of liquid should be taken to mean any eruption or violent splash of a quantity of liquid having enough force to penetrate the face/goggle interface or the breather vents.  A full face shield is the minimum requirement for work presenting the possibility of such violence.
careetc.bmp (742 bytes) Clean goggles regularly with mild soap and water, dry, and store in a dry, temperate storage area.   Hanging them up by the elastic band will cause unnecessary wear on the band.   Goggles well cared for will last for years.  There are no special disposal considerations for them if they are not contaminated with chemical or biological waste; they are regular trash.