Very intense infrared radiation in areas of high heat can dry out the mucous membrane of the eyes. Radiation that is not accompanied by visible light is considered the most dangerous.
To protect against IR radiation, a specialized face shield or protective goggles must be used.
Almost all materials for glass and plastic lenses block ultraviolet radiation below 300 nm and infrared radiation with wavelengths above 3,000 nm (3). Goggles and protective shields used to protect the eyes from IR have a greenish or grayish tint, darker or lighter depending on the degree of shading required for the work.
Ensuring protection of the peripheral field of vision is of primary importance for this type of eye protection and for industrial sunglasses. Side shields or a wrap‑around design are important to prevent the focusing of oblique, temporal rays onto the nasal equatorial region of the lens, where cortical cataracts often develop.