Updated 4 November 2026
Choose an eye protection sign after the assessment has established what protection is needed. The sign should communicate the selected control rather than determine the equipment by itself.
Safety spectacles, goggles and face shields cover different designs and performance levels. A familiar product name does not establish suitability for every splash, particle or radiation hazard.
Select protection for the exposure
HSE identifies eye hazards including splash, dust, projectiles, gases, vapours and radiation. The chosen protection needs the appropriate performance, fit and suitability for the task.
Obtain advice from the PPE supplier or a competent specialist where necessary. Explain the job and exposure, rather than asking only for “standard safety glasses”.
Keep engineering controls and safe working methods in place; the sign is not a replacement for them.
Avoid assumptions about equipment types
Goggles provide closer enclosure, but designs differ. HSE’s detailed guidance notes that some ventilated goggles may be unsuitable for gases and fine dust.
A face shield protects a wider facial area but does not fully enclose the eyes. Whether additional eye protection is needed depends on the assessed hazard and specified equipment.
Do not print a visor-only instruction if the approved procedure requires goggles as well. Avoid using broad claims such as “impact proof” without product evidence.
Communicate the actual requirement
Use an appropriate blue mandatory pictogram with concise supporting wording. Specify goggles or face protection where the local instruction needs that distinction.
If several PPE items are required, confirm that the combined message applies to the same area or task. Separate instructions may be clearer where requirements differ.
Keep the sign consistent with the training, work instruction and equipment supplied.
Put the instruction before exposure
Identify the point where the requirement begins. Check all permitted approaches and ensure people can obtain and fit the protection before starting work or entering.
Where the requirement is task-specific, explain that boundary. Do not imply that protection is optional during brief exposure merely because a task takes only a few minutes.
Include affected visitors and contractors in the communication arrangements.
Check fit, compatibility and condition
HSE advises considering how PPE items work together. Eyewear must suit the user and remain compatible with other protection, including prescription and respiratory needs.
Follow the manufacturer’s cleaning and replacement instructions. A sign beside damaged or unavailable eyewear leaves the underlying control incomplete.
Review both the instruction and equipment when the task, substances or machinery change.
Sources: HSE: choosing the right PPE type; HSE: PPE guidance L25, eye and face protection; HSE: PPE selection and use.
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