Newly revised ANSI/ISEA Z87.1-2025 clarifies standards for occupational, educational eye and face protectors

The Vision Council issued a press release announcing publication of the revised American National Standard for Occupational and Educational Personal Eye and Face Protection Devices (ANSI/ISEA Z87.1-2025). This is the sixth such revision of the industry consensus standard for eye and face protection.

As stated in the press release, “This standard sets criteria related to the general requirements, testing, permanent marking, selection, care, and use of eye and face protectors to minimize the occurrence and severity or prevention of injuries from such hazards as impact, non-ionizing radiation, and liquid splash exposures in occupational and educational environments including, but not limited to, machinery operations, material welding and cutting, chemical handling, and assembly operations.”

Based on this standard,employers are obliged to provide employees with appropriate safety eyewear and face protection that conforms to the industry standard.

The key updates in this version are as follows:

• A cross-reference to ANSI/ISEA Z87.62-2021, addressing protection against sprays or spurts of blood and other potentially infectious materials.
• Expanded clarification and requirements for product markings, including specific guidance on prescription lens carriers and detailed examples in Annex L.
• Updated and clarified language in sections related to impact testing, lens haze, and minimum coverage requirements to promote consistent test execution.
• Editorial improvements throughout the document, including reorganized content in hazard-specific sections for easier comprehension.

Michael Vitale, the vice president of Membership, Government Relations & Technical Affairs at The Vision Council, commented, “These updates are the result of a comprehensive 5-year revision process. The Vision Council is proud to have worked alongside industry experts to revise these standards to emphasize product performance and to support innovation and responsiveness to diverse workplace hazards.”

Vision Council goal

Through its leadership in standards development, The Vision Council ensures that the optical industry remains responsive to emerging technologies, evolving safety requirements, and global harmonization efforts. The organization’s active involvement in both national and international committees is a testament to its long-standing commitment to technical excellence and to fostering a stronger, more connected optical community, according to the council’s press release.

More information on technical standards and/or access industry resources can be obtained at: thevisioncouncil.org

Reference

The Vision Council Announces the Publication of ANSI/ISEA Z87.1-2025, Occupational and Educational Personal Eye and Face Protection Devices. News release. The Vision Council. January 9, 2026. Accessed January 9, 2026. https://thevisioncouncil.org/blog/vision-council-announces-publication-ansiisea-z871-2025-occupational-and-educational-personal