Eyewear fit testing is an evaluation of how well protective eyewear seals to the face, ensuring four key elements: security (stays in place), coverage (protects soft tissue), gaps (minimal gaps around the frame), and view (doesn't obstruct vision). A proper fit is crucial for protecting against hazards, and it requires checking that the eyewear is comfortable and stays secure during head movements, while also verifying no significant gaps exist and vision is not obstructed. This is a free service Accurate offers to our walk in customers to ensure purchased eye pro properly fits. We also offer this service at an hourly rate to come to your facility to fit test your entire staff.
Key elements of fit testing
- Security: The eyewear must stay in place and not fall off when the wearer moves their head up, down, or side to side.
- Coverage: The frames should cover the soft tissue area around the eyes, including the eyebrows and cheeks, to protect from projectiles.
- Gaps: There should be minimal gaps between the face and the eyewear, which can be checked using gap gauges. A gap of less than a pencil's width is ideal, and gaps of $6-8$mm or less are preferred.
- View: The wearer must be able to see clearly in all directions without major obstruction from the eyewear frame.
How to perform a fit test
- Check comfort: Ensure the eyewear is comfortable, the nosepiece doesn't pinch or slide, and the temples don't cause pressure behind the ears.
- Wear the eyewear: Put on the glasses and make sure the lenses don't hit your eyelashes.
- Perform head movements: Move your head in all directions to confirm the glasses remain securely in place.
- Check the view: Look around to ensure your peripheral vision is not obstructed.
- Inspect for gaps: Run your fingers around the frame to check for gaps at the top, bottom, and sides. Use tools like gap gauges for a more precise measurement.
- Check coverage: Ensure the eyewear provides adequate coverage over the soft tissue around the eyes.
- Finalize: If the fit is not satisfactory in any of these areas, try a different style or model until a proper fit is achieved.
Important considerations
- Fit testing is not a one-time event. A new test should be performed if the wearer experiences any significant facial changes, such as weight fluctuations or dental work.
- Proper fit is crucial, as improperly fitted eyewear may not provide the necessary protection and could lead to an injury.
