Later eye protection standard and visitor spectacles

NOTICE: This is an OSHA Archive Document, and may no longer represent OSHA Policy. It is presented here as historical content, for research and review purposes only.

July 30, 1982

James W. Stout, O.D. CPT, MSC
Department of the Army
Occupational & Environmental Medicine Division
[Recipient address omitted]

Dear Captain Stout:

This is in response to your letter regarding eye protection.

In accordance with the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970 (the Act), the ANSI Z87.1-1979 standard can not become the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requirement for eye protection until it is subjected to a formal rulemaking process. Because of other priorities, we do not have any plans in the near future for such a rulemaking. However, it is OSHA's policy to accept products which are in compliance with a later edition of a national consensus standard (see enclosed Field Directive CPL 2.11A).

Under the Act, OSHA is given the authority to protect employees from workplace hazards. However, the Act does not extend to persons not employed by a given company. Thus, OSHA does not have jurisdiction concerning visitors or "visitor's spectacles" worn by them.

Regarding the two models of eye protection that you mentioned in your letter, the Norton 180 model has been determined to provide protection equivalent to that afforded by eye protection meeting all of the requirements of ANSI Z87.1-1968. A copy of a letter stating this is enclosed for your information.

If you desire further information concerning eye protection, please contact Mr. Chappel D. Pierce of my staff. His telephone number is (202) 523-7216 (FTS: 523-7216).

Sincerely,
Barry J. White
Director,
Directorate of Safety Standards Programs