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What Does Z87+ Mean on Impact-Rated Safety Glasses?

Z87+ on impact-rated safety glasses means the eyewear meets the high-impact requirements under the ANSI/ISEA Z87.1 safety standard. The ?Z87? marking shows the glasses meet the baseline safety eyewear standard, while the ?+? points to higher impact protection for hazards like flying debris, tools, or particles. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health notes that Z87+ impact-rated safety glasses must have either wraparound coverage or side shields, which also lines up with OSHA's requirement for side protection when flying objects are present. For shoppers, the simplest rule is to check for 1 marking: Z87+ on the frame or lens if the glasses will be used for higher-risk work. Other markings can matter too, such as UV, splash, or dust ratings, but Z87+ is the number-and-symbol combination most closely tied to impact protection.

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What Does Z87+ Mean on Impact-Rated Safety Glasses?

Z87+ on impact-rated safety glasses means the eyewear meets the high-impact requirements under the ANSI/ISEA Z87.1 safety standard. The ?Z87? marking shows the glasses meet the baseline safety eyewear standard, while the ?+? points to higher impact protection for hazards like flying debris, tools, or particles. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health notes that Z87+ impact-rated safety glasses must have either wraparound coverage or side shields, which also lines up with OSHA's requirement for side protection when flying objects are present. For shoppers, the simplest rule is to check for 1 marking: Z87+ on the frame or lens if the glasses will be used for higher-risk work. Other markings can matter too, such as UV, splash, or dust ratings, but Z87+ is the number-and-symbol combination most closely tied to impact protection.

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Z87 vs Z87+ Safety Glasses

Both Z87 and Z87+ markings come from the ANSI/ISEA Z87.1 eye protection standard, but they point to different levels of impact testing. Safety glasses marked Z87 meet the standard's basic requirements for protective eyewear, while Z87+ glasses pass additional high-impact testing meant for stronger workplace hazards like flying debris or fast-moving particles. NIOSH explains that high-impact safety eyewear with the Z87+ marking must also include side protection through wraparound coverage or side shields. OSHA also requires side protection when workers are exposed to flying objects or particles. For jobs involving machinery, grinding, cutting, or construction work, workers are commonly advised to look specifically for the Z87+ marking instead of standard Z87 eyewear.

Where To Find The Z87+ Marking On Safety Glasses

The Z87+ marking is commonly found on the frame, lens, or both parts of impact-rated safety glasses. ANSI/ISEA Z87.1 requires protective eyewear to carry permanent markings so users can identify whether the glasses meet the proper safety standard and impact rating. Many safety glasses place the Z87+ symbol along the inside of the temple arm, near the hinge, or etched into the corner of the lens. Some models also include extra markings for splash protection, dust protection, or special lens filters depending on the work environment. Checking for the Z87+ label before buying safety glasses is one of the easiest ways to confirm the eyewear passed high-impact testing.

Why Side Protection Matters For Impact-Rated Safety Glasses

Side protection matters because impact hazards do not always come straight at your eyes. Small particles, chips, dust, and debris can enter from the side, especially during cutting, grinding, drilling, or machine work. OSHA requires side protection when workers face hazards from flying objects, while NIOSH notes that Z87+ impact-rated eyewear needs wraparound coverage or side shields. For many work settings, that means the frame shape matters just as much as the impact rating. Look for safety glasses with built-in side shields or a wraparound design if you need stronger coverage.

Other Safety Glasses Markings To Check Besides Z87+

The Z87+ marking is one of the most recognized safety eyewear labels, but other markings can matter depending on the job or environment. ANSI/ISEA Z87.1 includes markings for hazards such as splash exposure, dust, welding filters, and optical radiation protection, helping users match the eyewear to the task. Some safety glasses also include manufacturer markings, lens shade numbers, or labels showing the eyewear meets specific filter or visibility requirements. OSHA notes that protective eyewear should match the hazard present, not just general workplace use. Checking multiple markings instead of only the Z87+ symbol can help you choose safety glasses that fit your work conditions more closely.

Frequently Asked Questions About Impact-Rated Safety Glasses

Do all safety glasses have the Z87+ marking?

No. Some safety glasses only carry the Z87 marking, while high-impact-rated safety glasses should show Z87+. Check the frame or lens markings before buying, especially for work involving flying debris or particles.

Can prescription safety glasses be Z87+ rated?

Yes, prescription safety glasses can be made to meet ANSI/ISEA Z87.1 standards, but you should check that the frame and lenses are marked for the right safety rating. Regular prescription glasses are not the same as safety glasses unless they meet the proper protective eyewear standard.

Are Z87+ safety glasses enough for chemical splash protection?

Not always. Z87+ focuses on high-impact protection, while splash protection needs safety eyewear designed and marked for liquid splash hazards, such as goggles in many work settings. OSHA says eye protection should match the specific hazard, including chemicals, acids, and caustic liquids.

Should you replace Z87+ safety glasses after impact?

Yes, it's safer to replace safety glasses after a strong impact or if you see scratches, cracks, loose parts, or damaged lenses. Damage can weaken protection and make it harder to see clearly while working.

References

ANSI Z87.1 and Protective Eyewear Guide. Prevent Blindness. https://preventblindness.org/protective-eyewear/. Published n.d. Accessed May 18, 2026.

ANSI/ISEA Z87.1 Overview. The Vision Council. https://www.thevisioncouncil.org/content/ansi-z871-2020-standard-occupational-and-educational-personal-eye-and-face-protection-devices. Published n.d. Accessed May 18, 2026.

Eye and Face Protection Standard. Occupational Safety and Health Administration. https://www.osha.gov/laws-regs/regulations/standardnumber/1910/1910.133. Published n.d. Accessed May 18, 2026.

Eye Protection for Infection Control. National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health. https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/docs/2022-105/default.html. Published n.d. Accessed May 18, 2026.

Workplace Eye Safety Information. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health. https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/eye/default.html. Published n.d. Accessed May 18, 2026.