Why 'should' rarely works in the workplace

People don't just wear safety glasses because they have to. They want to understand why it's necessary. If the added value is not felt, the glasses are quickly seen as an obstacle. Especially when the message is delivered as an obligation: “You have to wear this.” This raises resistance. The Reactance Theory describes this aptly: as soon as people feel that their autonomy is being limited, the chance of resistance increases.

So it helps not to impose, but to involve. Taking employees seriously in the selection process makes a world of difference. What you choose together, you wear with more conviction.

Choose glasses that suit the job and the risks

Another important factor is the type of glasses that are prescribed. If this does not match the risks of the workplace, the protective capacity will decrease drastically. An open model in an environment with a lot of dust or chemical fumes? Then the damage can still occur.

Also, the fit of the frames plays a major role. Glasses that don't fit, pinch or rub properly quickly disappear into a jacket pocket. No face is the same, so one model for everyone doesn't work. Comfort and functionality must go hand in hand.

Why customization makes a difference for eyeglass wearers

For employees who wear prescription glasses, standard safety glasses are often not sufficient. It is often not worn because it is uncomfortable, foggy or not beautiful. Wearable glasses are awkward, uncomfortable and restrict vision. This not only increases irritation, but also the risk of accidents.

By investing in prescription safety glasses you give this group of employees the opportunity to work safely and comfortably. It contributes directly to wear acceptance and to the quality of the work.

Why employees do wear prescription safety glasses

People only really wear prescription goggles if they feel like their own.

More wearing comfort

• Lightweight frames that look like regular glasses
• Perfect fit, tailored to the wearer's face
• No pressure points or tight legs

Better vision quality

• Optical-quality lenses tailored to the right strength
• No distortion or blurred vision, as with cheaper glasses
• Less likely to suffer from eye fatigue or headache

Less irritation

• Properly adjusted lenses fog up less quickly
• No goggles that cause double vision
• Slower downtime means more protection

Prescription safety glasses are personal

• Because they are personal glasses, employees use them more carefully
• The glasses do not disappear in the jacket pocket or on the workbench
• Employees are less likely to take it off or lose it less often

More motivation, less control needed

• The motivation is not due to rules or pressure
• Wearing acceptance increases automatically, without additional campaigns
• Employees feel taken more seriously

Prescription safety glasses are not only functional, they feel like 'your' own 'glasses.

Maintenance is often forgotten

The best glasses are useless if they are damaged, dirty, or worn out. Scratches, greasy lenses or a dull coating not only cause poor vision, but also make the glasses less safe. And glasses that irritate or provide poor vision quickly lead to the glasses being taken off. But the moment an employee takes off the glasses, all protection is immediately gone.

Therefore, make clear agreements about upkeep one replacement. How often can employees request a new pair of glasses? What happens in the event of damage? Well-maintained glasses not only fit better, they also work better. The wearing comfort is high, the view remains sharp, and employees have less reason to take it off. Good maintenance and timely replacement ensure that employees continue to wear the glasses.

Practical care tips for each pair of safety glasses

• Clean daily with the right wipes
  ‍Use a soft microfiber cloth and special eyewear spray. No kitchen paper or clothing, as they can cause scratches.
• Rinse off dirt with water first
  ‍Sand or metal dust? Rinse the glasses gently with lukewarm water before brushing. This prevents you from rubbing the dirt over the lenses.
• Store your glasses in a sturdy case or case
  ‍Don't leave it lying around in your pocket or on a workbench. A good protective case extends the life of your frame and lenses.
• Check regularly for damage
  ‍Are there scratches in the field of vision, or is the frame loose? Report it right away. Damaged glasses no longer provide optimal protection.
• Have your glasses checked periodically
  ‍Schedule a short check-up every year, especially with prescription glasses. A check prevents unexpected wear and tear or declining comfort.

You can also make a difference with non-strength safety glasses

Of course, not everyone needs prescription safety glasses. But that does not mean that choosing safety glasses is less important. On the contrary. Non-strength safety glasses must also be comfortable, fit well and be tailored to the risks of the workplace. Glasses that pinch, fog up or irritate are often removed. And as soon as the glasses come off, the protection also disappears.

Many employees see standard safety glasses as something “must”, not something made for them. And that's where the difference lies. By choosing a model that fits the head shape, is lightweight and offers clear vision without distortion, the glasses feel much more like their own choice. This not only increases wearing comfort, but also commitment to safety.

Safety is not a product, but a habit

Personal protective equipment only works if it is part of a wider safety culture. Glasses alone do not make work safer. It's about attitude, communication and joint responsibility.

When managers lead by example, when colleagues speak to each other, and when employees feel heard, there is a growing chance that those glasses will not disappear into their pockets but will simply be worn.

Safety glasses only really protect when people want to wear them. You don't change behavior in a week. Start with the right model, but especially with the right conversation. Show why those glasses matter. Share a story of a colleague who was once injured by not wearing eye protection. Ensure engagement, clarity and comfort, and acceptance will follow.