Page 75 - OHS, October 2021

Preventing the Fogging Dilemma through Technology
Luckily, anti-fog technology has advanced to help safety pros deal with the fogging issues that often exasperate workers and interfere with their vision. Increasing in popularity are coatings that meet the demanding ANSI Z87.1 standard for anti-fog properties added for the U.S. in 2020 and the EN166K standard in Europe. There are several types of anti-fog chemicals and coatings. Many are temporary and erode over time, but there are premium coatings that are semi-permanent with a long shelf life. Anti-fog agents are available as creams, spray solutions and wipes, but the more resistant coatings are applied during the manufacturing process.
Non-Toxic Hydrophilic Coating. Hydrophilic anti-fog coatings have been developed from studies in nanoscience and nanotechnology. This type of coating has “water-loving” properties that absorb moisture and cause the individual water droplets to disperse evenly, forming a thin coating that releases the moisture at the edge of the lenses. Basically, it keeps water droplets from becoming large enough to be seen as fog. Water- based hydrophilic coatings are not soap- or solvent-based, so this non-toxic coating (another perk) does not wash off as easily as hydrophobic coatings.
Solvent-based Hydrophobic Coating. Hydrophobic anti-fog coatings are the opposite of hydrophilic coatings. These “water repelling,” soap-based coatings force water droplets to bead-up
and slide off the surface. This type of coating is toxic during the application process, so it is not as environmentally friendly as a hydrophilic coating.
Longer Lifespan Solutions
When battling fogging and the impaired vision that comes with it, nothing is 100 percent permanent when it comes to the different anti-fog solutions. However, the premium semi-permanent hydrophilic coatings are better than before and after longer lifespan solutions than the “economy” anti-fog alternatives.
Consult your manufacturer’s eyewear professional to make theproperdeterminationonwhatyourvisionsolutionshould be. Always make sure your selection of eyewear meets the ANSI Z87.1+ Standard. Concerned and product-savvy professionals at leading PPE manufacturers and suppliers work closely with ISEA and ANSI to bring about solutions that increase productivity and compliance. You can help diminish the fogging complaint by exploring the advancements made in anti-fog technology. By choosing promising anti-fog safety eyewear that is comfortable and stylish too, you will encourage workers to keep those goggles and glasses on their face and not in their hands.
Mary Padron is a Sr. MarCom & Event Specialist at Radians, a top-tier manufacturer of quality PPE.
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OCTOBER 2021 | Occupational Health &7/S21a/f2e1ty7:39 A7M1
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