# Why are protective sunglasses an essential tool at work?

> Protective sunglasses are an essential piece of equipment at work, especially in environments where exposure to strong sunlight or other potentially harmful…

URL: https://www.utg-vodnik.si/novice/why-are-protective-sunglasses-an-essential-tool-at-work

Protective sunglasses are extremely important, as they perform several key functions that protect our eyes from the harmful effects of the sun's rays. One of the most important roles of sunglasses is providing protection against ultraviolet (UV) rays emitted by solar radiation. Prolonged exposure to UV rays can cause numerous problems, including vision disturbances, an increased risk of developing cataracts and other eye diseases and injuries, including corneal damage. Quality sunglasses with a suitable UV filter can prevent most harmful rays from penetrating the eyes, which helps keep our eyes healthy.

Protective sunglasses also reduce the glare caused by strong sunlight. When light reflects off smooth surfaces such as water, sand or snow, a distracting glare is created that can impair our visibility and cause discomfort. Tinted lenses or polarised lenses, which many protective sunglasses have, reduce this glare and give us clearer, more comfortable vision even in bright conditions.

In addition to protection from UV rays and glare, sunglasses also act as a physical barrier against foreign objects entering our eyes. Wind, dust, sand and other particles can cause irritation or even damage to the surface of the eye. When working on construction sites, in industry or during sports activities there is an even greater risk of accidental blows or eye injuries from flying particles, tools, metal shavings or other objects. Protective sunglasses with reinforced lenses or special safety glasses provide additional strength and resistance, thus reducing the risk of injury.
Wearing protective sunglasses lets us avoid these problems, as our eyes remain safely protected.

## A DARK LENS COLOUR DOES NOT NECESSARILY MEAN SUFFICIENT UV PROTECTION

The quality of the filter that protects against UV rays and the sun is not visible just by looking at the lens. With a nice tint but poor UV protection, harmful radiation can easily penetrate a widely dilated pupil and cause serious damage. Real UV protection can only be proven by checking the lens transmission curve.

The transmission curve is a graph on which the actual transmission through a given lens is plotted against wavelength. That is why MSA always shows a detailed transmission curve for every tint, highlighting the actual effect of the filter by wavelength.

## WHY IS PROTECTION FROM UV RAYS SO IMPORTANT?

Damage to eye tissue from repeated exposure to UV rays is cumulative, gradual and irreversible. According to estimates by the World Health Organization, cataracts caused by UV exposure can blind up to 3 million people worldwide every year.

Workers who work outdoors are exposed to up to 10 times greater UV load per year, and UV radiation increases by as much as 30% at an altitude of 1000 m.

Protective sunglasses are therefore more than a fashion accessory. Using them is essential for the health and wellbeing of our eyes. With them we can enjoy sunny activities without risking long-term vision problems or injuries. It is therefore important to choose quality sunglasses with suitable protective properties and to wear them regularly, especially in strong sunlight and in areas with reflective surfaces. In addition to other protective equipment, UTG Vodnik also offers safety glasses. Check our range [here](https://www.utg-vodnik.si/en/head-protection/safety-glasses) or visit us in our [shop](https://www.utg-vodnik.si/en/contact#trgovina) in Vir near Domžale.

We are also happy to offer advice. Call us on**01 724 82 58**or write to us at **info@utg-vodnik.si** and together we will find the solution best suited to you or your employees.