ESSILOR LABORATORIES OF AMERICA ANTICIPATES NEW ANSI STANDARD CHANGE
MONTHS OF PREPARATION MAKE ESSILOR READY TO DELIVER “SAFER” SAFETY EYEWEAR
DALLAS - (July 1, 2003) – After consistent monitoring of the proposed standard change of the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), Essilor Laboratories of America (ELOA) has completed the required testing and is ready to provide compliant eyewear when the new Z87.1 – 2003 standard becomes official on August 19. As a result of the changes, ELOA strongly suggests to all eye care professionals and industrial customers that they always request “High Impact” protective lenses as these ensure the highest level of protection. Lenses meeting the new “High Impact Standard” will have a “+” following the standard safety mark required on all safety lenses.

“The ANSI exists to protect the safety and well-being of the U.S. workforce. Essilor has always taken these proposed changes seriously, so our laboratories and safety frame partners are ready early,” said Jeff Anderson, vice president of Essilor Industrial Sales. “We have proactively called and informed customers that in order for completed safety eyewear to be compliant with the “High Impact” standard, both frame and lenses must be compliant. Aligning with ELOA ensures full compliance with the new standards.”

For several years, the ANSI committee has been considering a “higher” standard for impact resistance regarding occupational eyewear. The basis for the new change is statistical data that indicates most eye injuries occur from low-mass, high velocity projectiles.

Eye care professionals with questions about ELOA’s compliance with the new standards are invited to call the ELOA safety hotline at 1 800 346-1338.