ANSI Z87+ identifies safety eyewear designed and tested for high-impact protection. The “+” distinguishes it from basic-impact Z87 eyewear and indicates that the lenses and frame have passed more demanding tests, including a high-velocity test using a ¼-inch steel ball traveling at 150 feet per second.
Complete Eyewear Protection
Z87+ performance involves more than impact-resistant lenses. The frame must withstand stress without breaking or allowing the lenses to dislodge. Appropriate side protection, either built into the frame or provided through removable side shields, helps protect your eyes from flying particles and debris approaching from different angles.
Prescription Safety Markings
For prescription safety glasses, look for the permanent marking “Z87-2+” on the frame, typically inside the temple arm or on the nose bridge. The “2” designates prescription eyewear, while the “+” confirÍms high-impact compliance. Prescription lenses must also meet ANSI requirements for optical clarity, prescription accuracy, and minimum thickness.
Choosing Z87+ Lenses
Polycarbonate and Trivex are commonly used for Z87+ prescription lenses because both materials are lightweight and highly impact-resistant. Polycarbonate also provides built-in UV protection, while Trivex offers excellent optical clarity.
Z87+ prescription safety glasses are a practical choice for construction, fabrication, grinding, woodworking, and other environments where high-speed particles or flying debris may pose an eye hazard.





















