Final answer:
For maximum eye protection, especially against UV radiation, safety glasses with side shields and top shields are recommended. Ordinary glasses offer some protection, but polycarbonate lenses provide more because they can block most UV rays. In addition to proper eyewear, following safety protocols and using correct filters for sun exposure are essential.
Step-by-step explanation:
The kind of safety glasses you should choose depends on the specific risks you will be encountering. For maximum protection, especially when working with or potentially exposed to ultraviolet radiation, safety glasses that have both side shields and top shields are preferred. This is because full coverage eyewear better shields the eyes from light that can reach them from various angles. While ordinary glasses provide some protection, plastic lenses, particularly polycarbonate, offer greater protection because they can block most UV rays. Contact lenses can also absorb UV radiation, thus protecting the retina. Remember it's crucial to use proper filters when looking at the Sun directly to prevent severe eye damage, with welders' goggles and specially designed eclipse glasses being among the safe choices.
In laboratories or industrial settings, following safety protocols such as wearing gloves, goggles, or safety aprons is important. Similarly, after an incident such as dropping a glass, cleaning it up should only involve using a dustpan and broom to prevent injury. In everyday life, one should also consider eye protection from the sun and wear sunglasses with adequate UV protection. Finally, for general safety, use helmets for certain sports and a seat belt when driving.