Q. Use of Protective Eyewear as personal protective equipment?

Protective lenses must be worn by dental personnel:

1. when performing procedures that can cause spatter or aerosols - including laboratory procedures

2. when performing procedures that produce projectiles - including laboratory procedures

3. when working with or in proximity to chemicals which emit fumes - especially in the laboratory

4. when it is likely that unprotected eyes will be exposed to any type of physical injury or splashes from corrosive or toxic chemicals (e.g. sodium hypochlorite)- including the laboratory

Everyday eyewear may not provide sufficient protection from spatter - special protective glasses, or goggles are required. Sideshields on the glasses increase the level of protection. If a face shield is worn, a mask is still required under the shield.

Protective lenses must be worn by patients, students, and clinical and support staff during active patient care.