When it comes to personal protective equipment (PPE) for you or your dog, choosing the right gear can mean the difference between injury and safety. Dogs are our faithful companions, and we want to ensure that they have the best gear for any situation. Eye protection is critical for working dogs, hunting dogs, and any dog that needs to be shielded from debris, UV rays, and other hazards. The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) Z87.1 rating and MIL specification testing are two standards that measure the effectiveness of eye protection. Maybe you’ve been wondering; What are these ratings, how are they tested and why should I care?
What is the ANSI Z87.1 Rating?
The ANSI Z87.1 rating is a standard that defines the requirements for safety glasses, goggles, face shields, and other eyewear designed to protect the eyes from hazards in the workplace or during specific activities. The standard covers a wide range of criteria, including optical quality, impact resistance, chemical and temperature resistance, and more. The impact resistance test is the most critical and is what we will focus on in this article.
How is the ANSI Z87.1 Rating Tested?
The ANSI Z87.1 rating tests the impact resistance of the eyewear. The test involves shooting a quarter-inch steel ball at the lens at speeds of up to 150 feet per second. The lens must withstand the impact without cracking, fracturing, or dislodging from the frame. If the eyewear passes this test, it receives a Z87+ rating. If it can withstand the impact of a half-inch steel ball at the same speed, it receives a Z87.2+ rating.
What is the MIL Specification Testing?
MIL-SPEC is a set of standards that define the quality and durability requirements for products used by the US military. The MIL-SPEC testing for eyewear is similar to the ANSI Z87.1 test, but it involves shooting a steel projectile at the lens at a higher speed of up to 640 feet per second. The eyewear must also pass a penetration test, where the projectile cannot pass through the lens or the frame. The eyewear that passes this test receives a MIL-PRF-32432 rating.
How are the MIL Specifications Tested?
The MIL-SPEC testing involves shooting a steel projectile at the eyewear lens at speeds of up to 640 feet per second. The lens must not crack or shatter, and the frame must not break or deform. Additionally, the lens and frame must withstand the impact without dislodging from each other. If the eyewear passes this test, it is subjected to a penetration test, where the projectile cannot penetrate the lens or frame. If the eyewear passes both tests, it receives a MIL-PRF-32432 rating.
What Aspects of the Rex Specs Design Make It Possible to Pass These Tests?
Rex Specs are goggles designed specifically for dogs. The goggle design features a shatterproof polycarbonate lens that is impact resistant, scratch-resistant, and offers 100% UV protection. The lens is held in place by a durable frame made from a thermoplastic elastomer that is designed to withstand impact and provide a comfortable fit. The frame also features a ventilation system that prevents fogging and allows for proper air circulation. Additionally, Rex Specs come with adjustable straps that ensure a secure fit on any dog's head.
The ANSI Z87.1 rating and MIL specification testing are essential because they provide a level of confidence to the customer that Rex Specs will provide their dogs’ eyes with the best possible protection. The ratings ensure that the eyewear has undergone rigorous testing to determine its ability to withstand high-velocity impacts and penetration. Rex Specs goggles have passed both the ANSI Z87.1 and MIL-PRF-32432 high velocity impact rating portions of the tests, making them an excellent choice for working dogs, hunting dogs, and any dog that needs eye protection during outdoor activities. The goggles have been tested to provide superior protection against debris, UV rays, and other hazards, making them a reliable choice for pet owners who want to ensure their pet's safety while providing a hassle-free experience for both the dog and the owner.