THE SUNGLASS STANDARD AND ITS RATIONALE

This paper reports on the 17-year development of the current Z80.3 Sunglass Standard. The dioptric tolerances of +0.125 to −0.25 D power, 0.125 D astigmatism, 0.25Δ prism, and 0.18 D power imbalance are based on research by optometry’s leaders. The traffic signal and luminous transmittance requirements are the result of study of the literature and original research. There has been much misunderstanding regarding the UV transmittance specifications. They too were exhaustively researched and discussed. That work is reviewed in detail. New equations for calculating exposures are presented with sample spectra. Graphic evaluations of severe risk exposures are presented. They show that based on the accepted criteria, for reasonable assumptions the Standard offers a 10x margin of safety. Studies of retinal risk indicate the Standard provides ample protection. Some criteria need further study. Potential problems are based on the fact that some sunglasses are too dark for driving and that use of ordinary sunglasses for sports provides inadequate protection from injuries. © 1990 American Academy of Optometry.