EN166

EN 166 is a European standard specifying the requirements for personal eye protection devices, including safety glasses, goggles, and face shields. It covers devices intended to protect against hazards commonly found in industry, laboratories, healthcare, and construction, such as mechanical impact and chemical splashes. The standard is published by CEN and is harmonized under the EU PPE Regulation; devices that meet EN 166 can bear the CE conformity mark indicating regulatory compliance.

Scope and performance: EN 166 sets general requirements for design, construction, and performance, including optical quality (optical class) and the field of use, as well as marking and mass. It also lists optional properties that protectors may provide, such as anti-fogging coatings, anti-scratch coatings, splash resistance, or chemical protection, along with corresponding test methods.

Tests and marking: The standard prescribes tests to verify mechanical integrity and optical performance, including impact resistance and transmission of light. It also requires specific markings to indicate EN 166 compliance and the selected optional properties. Where applicable, CE labeling indicates conformity with the PPE Regulation.

Applications and scope: EN 166 is widely used in Europe across industries and is referenced in procurement, safety training, and regulatory compliance. National adoption supplements may exist, and manufacturers often publish a product-specific conformity statement.