Which personal protective equipment should be worn to protect eyes when handling refrigerants?

Safety goggles are the appropriate choice for protecting the eyes when handling refrigerants due to their design, which provides a tight seal around the eyes, minimizing the risk of exposure to splashes or debris. Unlike regular glasses, which do not offer comprehensive protection, safety goggles ensure that harmful substances do not come into contact with the eyes. They also provide a barrier against flying particles or chemical vapors, which is especially crucial when working with refrigerants that can cause serious eye irritation or injury.

A face shield, while beneficial for broader facial protection, may not provide the adequate seal needed at the edges compared to safety goggles. Additionally, contact lenses are not suitable as they can trap chemicals against the eye and exacerbate any exposure. Regular glasses, although helpful for vision, do not offer the level of protection necessary for handling hazardous materials like refrigerants. Therefore, safety goggles are essential for ensuring maximum eye safety in environments where refrigerants are present.