Face Shields vs. Safety Goggles: What to Use and When

Introduction: Understanding Eye and Face Protection

When it comes to eye and face safety in hazardous environments, two common options are face shields and safety goggles. But they serve different purposes, and choosing the wrong one can leave you underprotected.

This guide will help you understand the difference between face shields and safety goggles, when each is appropriate, and how to stay OSHA-compliant while protecting your eyes and face in 2025.

What Are Face Shields?

Face shields are transparent visors that cover the entire face, typically attached to a headband or helmet. They protect against splashes, flying particles, and potential exposure to infectious materials.

Best for:

  • Medical and laboratory environments
  • Grinding and cutting tasks
  • Chemical splash protection
  • Impact protection when used in conjunction with goggles

Limitations: Face shields do not provide a seal around the eyes, which means they do not offer full protection from airborne particles or dust. OSHA considers them secondary protection.

What Are Safety Goggles?

Safety goggles are sealed eyewear that form a protective barrier around the eyes. They are available in direct, indirect, or non-vented models depending on the level of exposure.

Best for:

  • Dusty environments
  • Chemical splash protection
  • Flying debris or impact hazards
  • Working in confined or high-risk areas

Limitations: While goggles protect the eyes, they don’t shield the rest of the face. They may also fog up without anti-fog coatings or ventilation features.

Key Differences Between Face Shields and Goggles

  • Coverage: Goggles protect the eyes; face shields protect the entire face
  • Seal: Goggles create a seal; face shields are open at the bottom and sides
  • Use Case: Goggles are primary eye protection; face shields are supplementary
  • Compliance: OSHA requires goggles when there's a risk of eye injury from flying particles or chemicals; face shields must be combined with goggles in high-risk situations

OSHA and ANSI Requirements

Both face shields and goggles must meet ANSI Z87.1 standards to be considered OSHA-compliant.

  • Goggles: Look for Z87+ markings for impact protection
  • Face shields: Look for Z87 markings on the visor and headgear

Recommended Usage Scenarios

  • Grinding metal: Goggles + face shield
  • Working with chemicals: Indirect-vent goggles + optional face shield
  • Medical or lab work: Face shield + safety glasses or goggles
  • Woodworking: Safety goggles
  • Power washing or spraying: Face shield

Product Options Available at eDisasterSystems.com

At eDisasterSystems.com, we carry:

External Resource

OSHA PPE: Eye and Face Protection Guidelines

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Are face shields enough protection on their own?

No. OSHA considers face shields as secondary protection. They must be used in combination with safety goggles or glasses when there's a risk of eye injury from impact or splash.

2. Can you wear goggles and a face shield together?

Yes. In fact, OSHA recommends using both for high-risk tasks like grinding, cutting, or chemical exposure to ensure full eye and face protection.

3. What does ANSI Z87.1 mean?

It’s a certification from the American National Standards Institute that ensures goggles or face shields meet safety standards for impact resistance, optical clarity, and protection from various hazards.

4. What’s the difference between direct, indirect, and non-vented goggles?

Direct vent: Better airflow but limited splash protection
Indirect vent: Blocks liquids while allowing airflow
Non-vented: Maximum splash protection but may fog more easily

5. Do face shields fog up like goggles?

Face shields are less likely to fog up since they allow more airflow, but fogging can still occur. Anti-fog coatings are available for both goggles and face shields.

Conclusion: Layer Protection for Maximum Safety

In most industrial or medical environments, no single piece of protective gear is enough. When in doubt, layering goggles under a face shield offers the best defense. For tasks with high chemical or impact risk, following OSHA guidance and ANSI standards is essential.

Explore compliant, high-performance face shields and safety goggles today at eDisasterSystems.com and protect your team with the right gear in 2025.