What type of protection do safety glasses provide in the laboratory?

Safety glasses are primarily designed to protect the eyes from the impact of foreign objects. In a laboratory setting, various activities such as handling glassware, working with equipment, or conducting experiments can result in projectiles, splashes, or flying debris. The lenses of safety glasses are crafted from shatter-resistant materials that can withstand impacts, helping to prevent injury to the eyes from unexpected accidents.

While safety glasses may provide some level of protection against certain chemical splashes due to their enclosing design, this protection is not their primary function. Other types of protective eyewear, like goggles or face shields, are recommended for environments where chemical exposure is a significant concern. Additionally, they do not offer protection against loud noises or heat, which require specific protective gear. Thus, their main purpose remains focused on safeguarding the eyes from potential physical hazards in the lab environment.