How to select the right laser safety eyewear

Choosing the correct laser safety glasses doesn’t have to be complicated. This simple, practical guide will help you select the right protection—combining safety, comfort, and visibility whether you’re in a lab or industrial setting.

1. Identify Your Laser’s Wavelength

Every laser operates at a specific wavelength—sometimes more than one. For example, it may have a visible alignment beam (e.g. 532 nm) and an invisible infrared beam (e.g. 1064 nm).
🔍 Tip: Always use the operational (primary) wavelength when selecting eyewear. You’ll find this in your laser’s manual or data sheet.

The protective filter you choose must block the specific wavelength your laser emits. For more information, see our article: Eye protection against lasers – risks and solutions.

2. Determine the Required Optical Density (OD)

Optical Density (OD) is a measure of how much laser radiation the eyewear can absorb or block:

• OD 1 blocks 90%
• OD 1 blocks 90%
• OD 3 blocks 99.9%, and so on

Your laser manual or your safety officer should specify the minimum OD required for each wavelength. For instance, “OD 2 at 780 nm.” Choose glasses that meet or slightly exceed this OD level—but avoid excessive filtering, which can reduce visibility and make alignment difficult.

3. Ensure Good Visibility (VLT – Visible Light Transmission)

VLT indicates how much visible light can pass through the lenses. Higher VLT = clearer vision and less eye strain.

If VLT is too low (below 20%), you may need extra lighting in your workspace.

Aim for glasses with at least 30–50% VLT, as long as they meet the required OD for your laser.

Dielectric-coated lenses typically offer higher VLT than basic polymer lenses.

4. Choose a Comfortable Frame

Even the most effective filters are useless if the glasses are uncomfortable and not worn consistently. Apel Laser offers a variety of frames tailored to your needs:

• • Fit-over frames – to wear over prescription glasses

• Insert-ready frames – for users needing prescription lenses
• Sport or goggle-style frames – for enhanced side protection

A great example is the Laservision F19/F20 frame: lightweight, wide field of view, and available in multiple colors. Look for soft nose pads and adjustable straps for optimal comfort.

5. Confirm Certification

In Europe, laser protective eyewear must meet EN 207/EN 208 (now ISO 19818:2021) standards. These ensure:

• Certified filter protection for specific wavelengths

• Frame durability against accidental beam exposure

In the US, ANSI Z136 standards apply. Make sure your eyewear is clearly marked with CE or ANSI labels, OD rating, and wavelength coverage.

6. Combine the Specs and Choose the Right Glasses

To make the right choice, you’ll need:

1. Wavelength (e.g. 780 nm)
2. Required OD (e.g. OD 2)
3. VLT (preferably ≥ 30%)
4. Frame style (fit-over, prescription, goggle)
5. Certified product (EN, ANSI, CE)

You’ll find all these details on our product pages. For example, our Laser Safety Glasses section lists full specifications including filters, VLT, OD levels, and frame compatibility. You can also use the Request a Quote button for support.

7. Wear Them Consistently and Inspect Regularly

• Never look directly into a laser beam—even with protective eyewear.
• Use diffuse reflections during alignment procedures, unless otherwise specified.
• Inspect your eyewear frequently. Scratches, cracks, or discoloration reduce protection and mean it’s time to replace them.

Choose Smart – Choose Apel Laser

At Apel Laser, we offer a wide range of certified laser protective eyewear, including trusted models like the F19/F20 Laservision frames. Need help matching OD, wavelength, and lens visibility? We’re here to guide you:

📧 Email us at sales@apellaser.ro
📞 Call us at +40 21 31 70 910

You can also browse and choose the right eyewear products directly from our online catalog:
👉 See our laser safety eyewear products

Summary

1. Identify your laser’s operating wavelength
2. Determine the required OD level
3. Choose lenses with high VLT
4. Pick a comfortable, well-fitting frame
5. Ensure certification (EN/ANSI)
6. Always wear and regularly inspect your glasses
7. Any questions? Contact us at sales@apellaser.ro or choose the products directly from our website.

👁️‍🗨️ Protect your vision with the right equipment—start now with laser eyewear you can trust from Apel Laser.