The latest iteration of the list dates back to July 2, 2019. However, the requirements are much more stringent. The APEL was created in 2006 because statistics showed that about 10% of battlefield injuries at that time included eye injuries.
Vision Center of Excellence There is no official shopping resource for APEL regulation, so we compiled a comprehensive buyer's guide to better service soldiers.
Well tell you what to expect.
Don't put anything between the shield and the eye.
Safety Goggles
Michael Eldridge is a US Marine Veteran and the founder of, Marking Requirements for Ballistic Eyewear Are Still Forthcoming, Healthy Eyes and Healthy Heart Connection, The Best of Safety Glasses USA 2011! Oakley
Goggles are required to stop a 17-grain fragment simulating projectile moving at a speed of 550 feet per second (approximately twice the energy impact of spectacles). Ballistics is the science that studies the movement of objects (such as bullets or rockets) shot or forced to move forward through the air.. Oakley is one of the most well-known manufacturers of eyewear for military members and law enforcement officials. However, Z87+ is the designated marking for all impact rated Plano, Readers & Magnifier safety glasses. Note that the Z87+ marking is used for all Plano readers and magnifier safety glasses. This lightweight, reliable eyewear offers peak protection when soldiers need it most.
Wed love to hear from you. On-Duty: Wear appropriate safety eyewear or DoD-approved APEL eye protection if you are, Off-Duty: Remember to wear APEL eye protection when. In the world of safety eyewear, ballistics means military-grade impact protection. Ballistic-rated eyewear is designed and tested to survive the militarys high-speed impact and fragmentation standards. The civilian standard for safety eyewear is indicated by a Z87+ marking that denotes meeting ANSI Z87.1 standards. The end result is the Authorized Protective Eyewear List, or APEL. http://www.peosoldier.army.mil/equipment/eyewear/. Soldiers must adhere to the Army's most current list.
Falls Church, VA 22041 Oakley High Definition Optics with Polaric Ellipsoid geometry meet or exceed the testing standards of the American National Standards Institute for optical clarity, visual fidelity and impact resistance. Accidents happen during standard duty activities, during sports or while performing chores around the house. Be aware that "head" dressings and "face" dressings will often cover the eyedon't let it unless you've shielded the eye first. Can I still use it? ARGO lens cut increases peripheral coverage.
When resistant glasses are recommended, APEL is the highest standard of protection due to their ballistic grade. Perfect for hazy or overcast, dusk/dawn conditions and indoor use. However, ANSI-certified safety glasses and goggles will not always be APEL certified. As lenses are generally the most vulnerable part of glasses and goggles, their care should be paramount.
Safety Glasses Thanks again for bringing this to my attention. See the full uniform regulations for uniforms currently classified as combat uniforms. Revision Military is another brand the Army asked to produce APEL eyewear for the list's first iteration.
In addition to ballistic performance, the U.S. military standard includes requirements for optical clarity, protection from UV rays, fit, chemical resistance, and environmental stability (properties wont be changed by exposure to a range of temperatures or levels of humidity). You can see the current list of APEL approved eyewear on the PEO Soldier website. Included in the Authorized Protective Eyewear List (APEL).
The Authorized Protective Eyewear List (APEL) is a list of protective eyewear tested and approved by the U.S. Military for use by its soldiers. Learn how your comment data is processed. Also If you wear inserts behind the MIL SPEC. Although currently without a marking, the Military Ballistic Standard 662 means a product meets military-grade standards. Eyewear on the APEL must meet the standards established by the Army Vision Conservation and Readiness Program. In training or as required by regulations, directives, and orders, Doing work or working around those producing particles, slivers or flying debris, Spending time in an area with exposure to Ultraviolet Light (UV), Doing chores that potentially produce slivers, particles, or flying debris (e.g., hammering, grinding, shop work, lawn and garden work), Playing sports (e.g., basketball, skiing, hunting, racquetball, etc. [] shooters, fisherman, and others. It also works to stay informed about the latest eyewear and technological developments. Eyewear passing these tests, along with additional criteria, may qualify to be listed on the APEL (Authorized Protective Eyewear List), which indicates the product is approved for individuals serving in the US Army. Plutonite lenses are high purity optical-grade polycarbonate that filter 100% of all UVA, UVB, UVC and harmful blue light up to 400nm.
Are the APEL rated glasses going to be better at resisting scratches then ANSI rated glasses?
While not APEL approved, you could select a ballistic-rated model such as the.
As a result, Smith Optics began manufacturing eyewear for the U.S. Military. This enclosure helps prevent any undue pressure or further damage to the eye. We tell you what to wear and where to get it.
If you do not have access to rigid eye-shields, contact your leadership for information on how to order and use them safely.
Thanks for your question.
The previous version from 2003 was organized by the type of protector.
The Z87+ markings on safety glasses and goggles indicate eyewear is compliant with ANSI Z87.1 high impact and ANSI/ISEA Z87.1 industrial safety standards for eye protection. Finally, you should store your sunglasses or goggles in a hard case when not in use. And speaking of tactical eyewear, if youve ever wondered How To Identify Ballistic Rated Eyewear, this blog will answer your [], [] process for inclusion on the APEL. PM SPIE enforces strict standards for UV protection, chemical resistance, optical clarity, ballistic protection and environmental stability for every APEL product. After acquiring UVEX in 2010, Honeywell was eager to let UVEX continue to pioneer eyewear technology. Safety eyewear meeting these criteria is used in a variety of industrial and personal applications. Are there any glasses on the APEL list with readers? In business since 1987, Wiley X is no stranger to making tough, durable glasses.
It appears your browser does not have cookies enabled. A comprehensive guide on how to meet regulation in the OCP combat uniform for the U.S. Army, Air Force and Space Force.
Safety Gear In fact, the MIL-PRF-31013 testing produces approximately 7 times more impact energy than the ANSI Z87.1 standard. The shortest duration between updates was the six month period from September 22, 2016 to March 21, 2017. Materials, branch requirements, compliance considerations & more we cover it all in our guide on choosing military boots. For a full product list, please download our NSN brochure. The best thing you can do is follow good lens cleaning practices to extend the life of your eyewear.
To help you get started, heres a list of favorite brands offering ballistic-rated styles: Even with the help provided by most safety eyewear manufacturers and retailers, its important to make sure any product purchased for military use is listed on APEL. Products are either non-impact or impact protectors. If youre going to be in an environment where you need the highest level of impact protection available, then you need to look for Ballistic-Rated Safety Eyewear. Anybody can order APEL eyewear from TacticalGear.com. The cookie settings on this website are set to 'allow all cookies' to give you the very best experience.
For testing, the velocity of the projectile must be verified using sound or optical chronograph methods.
PEO Soldier Military Combat Eye Protection (MCEP) Program, The Army Vision Conservation and Readiness Program, ANSI/ISEA Z87.1-2010: Frequently Asked Questions about the New Standard, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Authorized_Protective_Eyewear_List&oldid=962793657, Articles with dead external links from October 2016, Articles with permanently dead external links, Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike License 3.0, This page was last edited on 16 June 2020, at 02:21. There are three instances in which you may use APEL eyewear absent from the current list: Like any other product, the longevity of your APEL eyewear can depend on the quality standards of the manufacturer.
7700 Arlington Boulevard Suite 5101 You should also note that the uniform regulations have been updated to clarify the wear of branch and senior enlisted leader collar insignias for command sergeants major and sergeants major.
), Using household cleaning products or other chemicals.
hello, One question.
In October 2006, a study by the Womack Army Medical Center found that about 10 percent of battlefield wounds occur to soldiers' eyes. Great article, I learned something.
any help?
Even with a hard coated lens, working in an environment with lots of abrasive material/dust will scratch the lenses quickly. Box #22 (Silver Spring Office) Smith Optics This sheet shows whether any small pieces penetrate or come off of the eyewear during the test.
Thanks, Karl.
A PDF reader is required for viewing. Your browser's Javascript functionality is turned off. I have to be careful answering this particular question.
Look for eyewear with the Universal Prescription Lense Carrier (UPLC) compatible. ANSI, or the American National Standards Institute, tests a myriad of products and services to ensure proper safety procedures and regulations.
Soldiers wear impact protection-rated eyewear labeled "Z87+." Excellent in bright/glare conditions. Revision Military StingerHawk Shooters Kit Deluxe, Revision Military Desert Locust Photochromic Basic Kit, Revision Military Prescription Lens Carrier, If you received the issued eyewear at Rapid Fielding Initiative (RFI), If you purchased your eyewear from a military clothing store and the eyewear was on the published list at the time of purchase.
I have ANSI Z87 glasses with readers. It is no wonder the Army tapped the brand to produce APEL eyewear since the list's inception.
If youre using Rx inserts with military eyewear, they must be impact rated and marked with Z87-2+. Monday to Friday 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM 833-799-9800. As the exclusive provider of authorized eyewear for Marines, ESS has a breadth of experience making military-grade eyewear. The only way to be sure eyewear meets APEL standards is to check the APEL list provided and regularly updated by PEO Soldier, a program providing soldiers with capabilities to ensure they remain decisive and dominant throughout the full spectrum of military operations..
In order to check out, enable browser cookies and refresh the page. We began in October 2000 with an emphasis on creating a knowledgeable staff, world class customer service and an original approach to selling safety eyewear.
The products in this article are taken directly from the link provided. APEL-approved eyewear is validated against military requirements for ballistic fragmentation and offers hazard protection from particles, slivers and debris, and therefore provides the highest level of impact protection. You are correct that the Z87-2+ marking is required for impact rated prescription lenses.
The ANSI Z87.1-2015 standard wasnt designed for the powerful impacts of shotgun blasts and other hypervelocity impacts.
For the best experience on our site, be sure to turn on Javascript in your browser. Interchangeable thicker 2.6mm high impact polycarbonate lenses, One of the only approved goggles authorized by the U.S. Army for use over prescription eyewear, Battle-rated MIL-SPEC, exceeds ANSI Z87.1+ (2010), exceeds CE EN166, and is MIL-PRF-32432 compliant, Innovative ClearZone FlowCoat eliminates fogging and scratches, Patented ESS full-perimeter Hi-Flow ventilation and filtration system, Frame designed roomy enough to fit larger profiles, and over most eyeglasses, Open cell face padding for enduring comfort all day/night, The only approved eye protection for the U.S. Marines, ESS DedBolt LensLock allows for rapid tint change in tough field conditions, Proprietary Tri-Tech-Fit for maximum comfort without triggering pressure points, Frame fits all other M Frame 2.0 lenses, including Hybrid and Strike lenses, Meets ANSI Z87.1 requirements for impact protection, Also fulfills MILPRF31013 requirements for higher-velocity ballistic projectiles, Lenses can be replaced easily and without special tools, Comfortable, lightweight feel for long term wear, Meets ANSI Z78.1 (2003) standards for high mass, high velocity impact protection, Plutonite lens material blocks 100% of UVA/UVB/UVC/HEV radiation, Meets EN-166 BT K and U.S. Army MCEPS standards, Exceeds MIL-DTL-43511 compliance for ballistic impact resistance in every lens configuration, Lightweight O Matter frame is comfortable, Unobtainium nose pads provide grip while sweating, Shield lens technology prevents damage to your eyes, Thin stem technology is compatible with over-ear protection and comms systems, Trap door lens change design is easy to switch in and out, Enhanced line of sight ensures clear vision at all times, Ballistic rated lens is approved for active duty US military wear.
Vision Center of Excellence There is no official shopping resource for APEL regulation, so we compiled a comprehensive buyer's guide to better service soldiers.
Well tell you what to expect.
Don't put anything between the shield and the eye.
Safety Goggles
Michael Eldridge is a US Marine Veteran and the founder of, Marking Requirements for Ballistic Eyewear Are Still Forthcoming, Healthy Eyes and Healthy Heart Connection, The Best of Safety Glasses USA 2011! Oakley
Goggles are required to stop a 17-grain fragment simulating projectile moving at a speed of 550 feet per second (approximately twice the energy impact of spectacles). Ballistics is the science that studies the movement of objects (such as bullets or rockets) shot or forced to move forward through the air.. Oakley is one of the most well-known manufacturers of eyewear for military members and law enforcement officials. However, Z87+ is the designated marking for all impact rated Plano, Readers & Magnifier safety glasses. Note that the Z87+ marking is used for all Plano readers and magnifier safety glasses. This lightweight, reliable eyewear offers peak protection when soldiers need it most. Wed love to hear from you. On-Duty: Wear appropriate safety eyewear or DoD-approved APEL eye protection if you are, Off-Duty: Remember to wear APEL eye protection when. In the world of safety eyewear, ballistics means military-grade impact protection. Ballistic-rated eyewear is designed and tested to survive the militarys high-speed impact and fragmentation standards. The civilian standard for safety eyewear is indicated by a Z87+ marking that denotes meeting ANSI Z87.1 standards. The end result is the Authorized Protective Eyewear List, or APEL. http://www.peosoldier.army.mil/equipment/eyewear/. Soldiers must adhere to the Army's most current list.
Falls Church, VA 22041 Oakley High Definition Optics with Polaric Ellipsoid geometry meet or exceed the testing standards of the American National Standards Institute for optical clarity, visual fidelity and impact resistance. Accidents happen during standard duty activities, during sports or while performing chores around the house. Be aware that "head" dressings and "face" dressings will often cover the eyedon't let it unless you've shielded the eye first. Can I still use it? ARGO lens cut increases peripheral coverage.
When resistant glasses are recommended, APEL is the highest standard of protection due to their ballistic grade. Perfect for hazy or overcast, dusk/dawn conditions and indoor use. However, ANSI-certified safety glasses and goggles will not always be APEL certified. As lenses are generally the most vulnerable part of glasses and goggles, their care should be paramount.
Safety Glasses Thanks again for bringing this to my attention. See the full uniform regulations for uniforms currently classified as combat uniforms. Revision Military is another brand the Army asked to produce APEL eyewear for the list's first iteration.
In addition to ballistic performance, the U.S. military standard includes requirements for optical clarity, protection from UV rays, fit, chemical resistance, and environmental stability (properties wont be changed by exposure to a range of temperatures or levels of humidity). You can see the current list of APEL approved eyewear on the PEO Soldier website. Included in the Authorized Protective Eyewear List (APEL).
The Authorized Protective Eyewear List (APEL) is a list of protective eyewear tested and approved by the U.S. Military for use by its soldiers. Learn how your comment data is processed. Also If you wear inserts behind the MIL SPEC. Although currently without a marking, the Military Ballistic Standard 662 means a product meets military-grade standards. Eyewear on the APEL must meet the standards established by the Army Vision Conservation and Readiness Program. In training or as required by regulations, directives, and orders, Doing work or working around those producing particles, slivers or flying debris, Spending time in an area with exposure to Ultraviolet Light (UV), Doing chores that potentially produce slivers, particles, or flying debris (e.g., hammering, grinding, shop work, lawn and garden work), Playing sports (e.g., basketball, skiing, hunting, racquetball, etc. [] shooters, fisherman, and others. It also works to stay informed about the latest eyewear and technological developments. Eyewear passing these tests, along with additional criteria, may qualify to be listed on the APEL (Authorized Protective Eyewear List), which indicates the product is approved for individuals serving in the US Army. Plutonite lenses are high purity optical-grade polycarbonate that filter 100% of all UVA, UVB, UVC and harmful blue light up to 400nm.
Are the APEL rated glasses going to be better at resisting scratches then ANSI rated glasses?
While not APEL approved, you could select a ballistic-rated model such as the.
As a result, Smith Optics began manufacturing eyewear for the U.S. Military. This enclosure helps prevent any undue pressure or further damage to the eye. We tell you what to wear and where to get it.
If you do not have access to rigid eye-shields, contact your leadership for information on how to order and use them safely.
Thanks for your question.
The previous version from 2003 was organized by the type of protector.
The Z87+ markings on safety glasses and goggles indicate eyewear is compliant with ANSI Z87.1 high impact and ANSI/ISEA Z87.1 industrial safety standards for eye protection. Finally, you should store your sunglasses or goggles in a hard case when not in use. And speaking of tactical eyewear, if youve ever wondered How To Identify Ballistic Rated Eyewear, this blog will answer your [], [] process for inclusion on the APEL. PM SPIE enforces strict standards for UV protection, chemical resistance, optical clarity, ballistic protection and environmental stability for every APEL product. After acquiring UVEX in 2010, Honeywell was eager to let UVEX continue to pioneer eyewear technology. Safety eyewear meeting these criteria is used in a variety of industrial and personal applications. Are there any glasses on the APEL list with readers? In business since 1987, Wiley X is no stranger to making tough, durable glasses.
It appears your browser does not have cookies enabled. A comprehensive guide on how to meet regulation in the OCP combat uniform for the U.S. Army, Air Force and Space Force.
Safety Gear In fact, the MIL-PRF-31013 testing produces approximately 7 times more impact energy than the ANSI Z87.1 standard. The shortest duration between updates was the six month period from September 22, 2016 to March 21, 2017. Materials, branch requirements, compliance considerations & more we cover it all in our guide on choosing military boots. For a full product list, please download our NSN brochure. The best thing you can do is follow good lens cleaning practices to extend the life of your eyewear.
To help you get started, heres a list of favorite brands offering ballistic-rated styles: Even with the help provided by most safety eyewear manufacturers and retailers, its important to make sure any product purchased for military use is listed on APEL. Products are either non-impact or impact protectors. If youre going to be in an environment where you need the highest level of impact protection available, then you need to look for Ballistic-Rated Safety Eyewear. Anybody can order APEL eyewear from TacticalGear.com. The cookie settings on this website are set to 'allow all cookies' to give you the very best experience.
For testing, the velocity of the projectile must be verified using sound or optical chronograph methods.
PEO Soldier Military Combat Eye Protection (MCEP) Program, The Army Vision Conservation and Readiness Program, ANSI/ISEA Z87.1-2010: Frequently Asked Questions about the New Standard, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Authorized_Protective_Eyewear_List&oldid=962793657, Articles with dead external links from October 2016, Articles with permanently dead external links, Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike License 3.0, This page was last edited on 16 June 2020, at 02:21. There are three instances in which you may use APEL eyewear absent from the current list: Like any other product, the longevity of your APEL eyewear can depend on the quality standards of the manufacturer.
7700 Arlington Boulevard Suite 5101 You should also note that the uniform regulations have been updated to clarify the wear of branch and senior enlisted leader collar insignias for command sergeants major and sergeants major.
), Using household cleaning products or other chemicals.
hello, One question.
In October 2006, a study by the Womack Army Medical Center found that about 10 percent of battlefield wounds occur to soldiers' eyes. Great article, I learned something.
any help?
Even with a hard coated lens, working in an environment with lots of abrasive material/dust will scratch the lenses quickly. Box #22 (Silver Spring Office) Smith Optics This sheet shows whether any small pieces penetrate or come off of the eyewear during the test.
Thanks, Karl.
A PDF reader is required for viewing. Your browser's Javascript functionality is turned off. I have to be careful answering this particular question.
Look for eyewear with the Universal Prescription Lense Carrier (UPLC) compatible. ANSI, or the American National Standards Institute, tests a myriad of products and services to ensure proper safety procedures and regulations.
Soldiers wear impact protection-rated eyewear labeled "Z87+." Excellent in bright/glare conditions. Revision Military StingerHawk Shooters Kit Deluxe, Revision Military Desert Locust Photochromic Basic Kit, Revision Military Prescription Lens Carrier, If you received the issued eyewear at Rapid Fielding Initiative (RFI), If you purchased your eyewear from a military clothing store and the eyewear was on the published list at the time of purchase.
I have ANSI Z87 glasses with readers. It is no wonder the Army tapped the brand to produce APEL eyewear since the list's inception.
If youre using Rx inserts with military eyewear, they must be impact rated and marked with Z87-2+. Monday to Friday 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM 833-799-9800. As the exclusive provider of authorized eyewear for Marines, ESS has a breadth of experience making military-grade eyewear. The only way to be sure eyewear meets APEL standards is to check the APEL list provided and regularly updated by PEO Soldier, a program providing soldiers with capabilities to ensure they remain decisive and dominant throughout the full spectrum of military operations..
In order to check out, enable browser cookies and refresh the page. We began in October 2000 with an emphasis on creating a knowledgeable staff, world class customer service and an original approach to selling safety eyewear.
The products in this article are taken directly from the link provided. APEL-approved eyewear is validated against military requirements for ballistic fragmentation and offers hazard protection from particles, slivers and debris, and therefore provides the highest level of impact protection. You are correct that the Z87-2+ marking is required for impact rated prescription lenses.
The ANSI Z87.1-2015 standard wasnt designed for the powerful impacts of shotgun blasts and other hypervelocity impacts.
For the best experience on our site, be sure to turn on Javascript in your browser. Interchangeable thicker 2.6mm high impact polycarbonate lenses, One of the only approved goggles authorized by the U.S. Army for use over prescription eyewear, Battle-rated MIL-SPEC, exceeds ANSI Z87.1+ (2010), exceeds CE EN166, and is MIL-PRF-32432 compliant, Innovative ClearZone FlowCoat eliminates fogging and scratches, Patented ESS full-perimeter Hi-Flow ventilation and filtration system, Frame designed roomy enough to fit larger profiles, and over most eyeglasses, Open cell face padding for enduring comfort all day/night, The only approved eye protection for the U.S. Marines, ESS DedBolt LensLock allows for rapid tint change in tough field conditions, Proprietary Tri-Tech-Fit for maximum comfort without triggering pressure points, Frame fits all other M Frame 2.0 lenses, including Hybrid and Strike lenses, Meets ANSI Z87.1 requirements for impact protection, Also fulfills MILPRF31013 requirements for higher-velocity ballistic projectiles, Lenses can be replaced easily and without special tools, Comfortable, lightweight feel for long term wear, Meets ANSI Z78.1 (2003) standards for high mass, high velocity impact protection, Plutonite lens material blocks 100% of UVA/UVB/UVC/HEV radiation, Meets EN-166 BT K and U.S. Army MCEPS standards, Exceeds MIL-DTL-43511 compliance for ballistic impact resistance in every lens configuration, Lightweight O Matter frame is comfortable, Unobtainium nose pads provide grip while sweating, Shield lens technology prevents damage to your eyes, Thin stem technology is compatible with over-ear protection and comms systems, Trap door lens change design is easy to switch in and out, Enhanced line of sight ensures clear vision at all times, Ballistic rated lens is approved for active duty US military wear.