Intended Use of Lead Glasses
Your Lead Glasses are intended to be used as Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) for reduction of x-ray and scatter radiation that is released during radiological examinations and interventional procedures in the medical environment. Radiation Safety Glasses are not to be used as impact safety lenses. Impact resistant over goggles must be used if impact protection is required.
All SAFELOOX lead glasses are equipped with premium 0.75mm Pb leaded lenses and 0.50mm Pb leaded side shields offering highest frontal and lateral protection against ionising radiation of up to 150kV – complying with the latest Australian standard AS/NZS 4543-3:2000 and international radiation protection standard IEC 61331-3.2014.
Cleaning and Disinfecting of Lead Glasses
Uncoated Lenses
Leaded lenses (with or without prescription) that do not have any coatings applied such as anti-fog or anti-reflective coatings.
DO NOT USE ALCOHOL BASED CLEANERS. It can damage the leaded lens.
- Clean with hand soap or natural lens cleaners with no microbeads or grit added.
- Gently rub leaded lenses in straight lines under clear running water.
- Dry with soft, lint-free cloth.
- You can also use non-alcohol based wipes.
Anti-fog Coated Lenses
Leaded lenses that are coated with anti-fog.
DO NOT USE ALCOHOL BASED CLEANERS. It will degrade the anti-fog coating.
- Clean with hand soap or natural lens cleaners with no microbeads or grit added.
- You can also use non-alcohol based wipes.
- Use a light pressure in straight lines, thoroughly cleaning all surfaces of leaded lenses and frame.
- Dry with microfibre cleaning cloth.
Anti-reflective Coated Lenses
Leaded lenses that are coated with anti-reflective/anti-glare coating.
DO NOT USE ALCOHOL BASED CLEANERS. It will degrade the anti-reflective coating.
- Clean with hand soap or natural lens cleaners with no microbeads or grit added.
- Gently rub leaded lenses in straight lines under clear running water.
- Dry with soft, lint-free cloth.
Caution
DO NOT AUTOCLAVE. NEVER USE AMMONIA OR CHLORINE BASED CLEANERS.
Radiation Safety Glasses cannot be disinfected in a pressure chamber (autoclave) or cleaned with Ammonia and chlorine-based cleaners as they harm the leaded lenses which are very fragile, and the frame material, which is usually made of plastic (e.g. polycarbonate or TR90).
DO NOT USE CIRCULAR MOTIONS WHILE CLEANING, AS IT CAN DAMAGE APPLIED COATINGS.
Manufacturers do not recommend circular motions while cleaning leaded glass as it can damage applied anti-fog and anti-reflective coatings and loose its functionality.
Safely Wearing and Storing Your Lead Glasses
ALWAYS USE YOUR HARD CASE
- Always place your lead glasses inside your hard case every time you take them off.
- Do not leave your lead glasses in a hot area. The heat can warp the frame.
- Do not set your lead glasses close to the sinks and vanities. They can get splashed with corrosive substances in these areas.
- Avoid putting your lead glasses on top of your head. The top of the head is generally wider than the face and can widen the frame.
- Don’t push on the nose piece. The motion can distort the nose piece; try to adjust the nose piece before placing it on your face.
- Use both hands to remove your lead glasses. The motion will keep your frame’s alignment and minimise changes over time.
- If you need to remove your lead glasses constantly, make sure to use a retainer cord.
Inspecting Your Lead Glasses Frequently
- Examine your lead glasses frequently as leaded lenses can become pitted, chipped or in other ways damaged.
- If that is the case, cease use immediately and contact your radiation safety officer at the hospital for instructions.
Also Read: Seven Top Tips for Looking After your Radiation Glasses
