Face Shields & Hoods

Buy Face Shields online at Droppe

Face shields are crucial personal protective equipment (PPE) designed to protect the face and eyes from a variety of workplace hazards. Choosing the right face shield requires careful consideration of several factors, including the specific risks present in your work environment, relevant European safety standards, material properties, comfort, and usability.

Types of Face Shields

Several types of face shields cater to different industries and hazard levels:

• Standard Face Shields: Offer basic protection against light debris and splashes. Suitable for general tasks where the risk of high-impact projectiles or chemical exposure is low.
• High-Impact Face Shields: Designed to withstand significant impacts from flying objects. Essential for grinding, cutting, and other tasks where high-speed projectiles are a concern. Polycarbonate is a common material for these shields.
• Chemical-Resistant Face Shields: Made from materials like acetate, these shields provide protection against chemical splashes and fumes. Crucial for chemical processing, laboratory work, and other environments where chemical exposure is a risk.
• Welding Face Shields: Equipped with tinted visors to protect against intense light, sparks, and UV/IR radiation. Essential for welding, brazing, and other high-heat applications.
• Integrated Hard Hat and Face Shield Combos: Offer combined head and face protection. Suitable for construction sites and other environments where both hazards are present.

European Safety Standards

Face shields used in European workplaces must comply with the EN 166 standard for eye and face protection. This standard defines various levels of protection, including:

• Optical Class: Indicates the optical clarity of the visor, with Class 1 providing the clearest vision.
• Impact Resistance: Ranges from low-energy impact (F) to high-energy impact (A).
• Protection Against Particles and Liquids: Shields are tested for their resistance to splashes and fine particles.

Additional standards like EN 170 (UV protection) and EN 171 (IR protection) are relevant for specific tasks like welding.

Industry-Specific Considerations

Different industries have unique face shield requirements:

• Construction: High-impact face shields made from polycarbonate are generally recommended, often combined with hard hats. Clear or lightly tinted visors are common.
• Food Production/Service: Face shields are used to prevent contamination and protect workers from splashes. Disposable or easily cleanable materials are often preferred.
• Healthcare: Face shields are essential for protecting against infectious droplets and bodily fluids. Anti-fog properties, comfort, and compatibility with other PPE like masks are important considerations.
• Metalworking: High-impact and heat-resistant shields are necessary for tasks involving grinding, welding, and molten metal. Depending on the specific task, clear, tinted, or mirrored visors may be used.
• Chemical Processing: Chemical-resistant face shields made from acetate or other suitable materials are crucial. Full-face coverage is usually required.

Comfort and Usability

A comfortable face shield is more likely to be worn correctly and consistently. Key comfort features include:

• Adjustable Headbands: Allow for a customized and secure fit.
• Padding: Provides cushioning and can absorb sweat.
• Lightweight Materials: Reduce strain during prolonged use.
• Ventilation: Helps prevent fogging and overheating.

Maintenance

Proper cleaning and storage are essential for maximizing the lifespan and effectiveness of face shields. Follow manufacturer instructions for cleaning and disinfection. Regularly inspect for damage and replace as needed.

Find the Right Face shield at Droppe

Before purchasing face shields, thoroughly assess the hazards in your workplace and consult relevant European safety standards (EN 166, EN 170, EN 171). Consider the specific needs of your industry and prioritize comfort and usability to encourage proper use. Remember that face shields often work best in conjunction with other PPE like safety glasses or goggles for complete protection.