Posted By Frank Hallett You've identified more than one issue in your post Roger. From my perspective there are two major issues that require to be addressed before your actual question can be answered effectively. First; the "fashion statement" reference - this implies a perception of the wearers that will not be addressed simply by answering your question. It not only calls into scope the corporate ethos and culture that makes such an statement possible but also whether suitable thought has been given to the fact that those who need glassess now have to accomodate two sets rather than one. Second; the overt assumption that the RA is the be all & end all because it specifies a BS - I would be looking at how the overglasses affect direct, peripheral, colour and contrast vision on each individual before dismissing any feedback on this as a "fashion statement" issue. It is entirely possible that the two issues are linked and that the best [most reasonably practicable] way forward would be personal issue of suitable prescription glassess. Of course, you may have already dealt with these issues, in which case you've answered your own question. Frank Hallett

Posted By Bill Parkinson Roger The criteria when selecting PPE also includes comfort, style and durability. There may be issues relating to comfort which is one of the problems in getting people to wear them. You may also get queries as to whether the decision for overglasses was based on the grounds of costs (did you trial a number of pairs of different glasses and overglasses before deciding ?) You don't have to supply whatever prescription safety sun glasses they want as I used to work in a chemical plant where we had contract with a firm who could supply a standard pair of prescription sunglasses for a fixed price. If a person wanted anything above this such as a trendy pair of frames then they would pay the difference (the company ensured that all frames and lenses met the standards). This resulted in no enforcement action being required for people not wearing their safety glasses and the workers were happy ! Regards Bill

Posted By Howard Sun glasses protect against the effects of the sun, glare from snow, sea, desert etc. If you have worked at an airport then you'll know the problems, vast expanse of concrete reflecting the sun. The additional burden of glare causes the eyes to strain in order to see well. Wearing sunglasses will reduce or eliminate this strain, cut the impact of harsh glare and eliminate the need to squint. Sunglasses also offer protection against ultraviolet radiation (UV). Sunglass lenses block 99% of harmful UV rays. Visual acuity, contrast, and overall sensitivity can be reduced by up to 50%, due to the sun's sustained bleaching of the photochemical rhodopsin in the rods of the retina. The right sunglasses during the day can block the appropriate light and at night can protect retinal sensitivity. As people spend more time outdoors, concern regarding the potentially harmful effects of sunlight increases. While many people appreciate the importance of using sunscreens to protect their skin, not everyone is quite so careful about choosing sunglasses. They can also prevent the eyes drying out and more importantly give the wearer the impression that they look cool!!