"Meets ANSI" Isn't a Rating: How to Spot Fake Safety Claims

"Meets ANSI." Okay, Which Standard?

ANSI stands for the American National Standards Institute. It's involved in standards for everything from machinery to protective equipment, including the stuff covering your eyeballs.

For safety eyewear, the standard you want to know about is ANSI/ISEA Z87.1. The latest edition is Z87.1-2025, and it covers requirements for protective eyewear used around workplace hazards.

But saying "Meets ANSI" without naming a standard? That's like a hard hat claiming it "meets safety."

Great, bro. Meets WHAT?

A legitimate manufacturer should be able to tell you which standard its glasses meet, what protection they provide, and where to find the required markings.

Z87 and Z87+ Aren't the Same Thing

Here's where things get important.

You've probably seen Z87 or Z87+ stamped on safety glasses. Those little markings aren't decoration.

Z87 identifies eyewear that meets applicable requirements of the ANSI/ISEA Z87.1 standard. By itself, it doesn't identify the higher impact classification.

Z87+ indicates impact-rated protection under the standard. That extra plus sign matters when you're dealing with flying debris, chips, and other impact hazards.

Think about cutting pipe, grinding metal, or working around equipment kicking up particles. That's not where you want to discover your sunglasses were never rated for impact.

And don't confuse dark lenses with safety protection. Just because your shades block sunlight doesn't mean they're qualified to stop flying debris.

Three Things to Check Before Buying Safety Glasses

You don't need to be a safety inspector to spot questionable claims. Just know what to look for.

1. Check the Actual Markings

Look at the frames and lenses.

Properly marked ANSI Z87.1 eyewear carries manufacturer identification and the applicable safety markings. Impact-rated frames commonly show Z87+, while lens markings depend on the lens type.

If there's no marking where one should be, don't assume the packaging tells the whole story.

2. Look for a Specific Standard

"Safety approved," "industrial strength," and "impact resistant" might sound impressive.

But impressive words aren't test results.

Look for an actual standard designation and impact rating. If the listing only says "Meets ANSI," ask the seller to get specific.

That phrase alone doesn't prove the glasses are fake. It just doesn't give you enough information.

3. Match the Glasses to the Job

Even legitimate Z87+ glasses aren't a free pass for every hazard.

Grinding, chemical splashes, fine dust, and welding can require different types of eye protection. Additional markings, proper coverage, and the right equipment matter.

If your work calls for sealed goggles or a face shield over safety glasses, regular safety sunglasses aren't a substitute.

Safety Claims Shouldn't Require Guesswork

Here's what separates useful safety information from a bunch of marketing noise.

Bomber Eyewear's safety line specifies ANSI Z87+ impact protection. Bomber also identifies safety markings on its frames and lenses, so you're not relying on a vague promise printed on a box.

And because glasses have to survive actual workdays, Bomber offers lightweight polycarbonate lenses, comfortable frames, and floating options in select styles.

Just make sure you're choosing a Bomber Safety model. Not every pair of Bomber sunglasses is safety rated.