Your next spectacles might be easy on skin, break-proof
NEW DELHI: Broken and deformed spectacles? Fancy frames itching your skin? Fret not, stringent standards to manufacture eyewear are on the way, aiming to enhance consumer safety and eye health.
The new standards, on par with international guidelines, will include strict test methods to make unglazed spectacle frames, two people aware of the matter said. Frames must withstand deformation and lens dislodgement under specified test conditions, ensuring mechanical stability in daily use. They must be resistant to perspiration, show no spotting, colour change, corrosion, or surface degradation after exposure.
The distance between the tips of the sides must remain within specified limits even when tested with fitted lenses, the people said on the condition of anonymity. Manufacturers must also minimize the risk of harmful substances leaking from the frame.
Frames must retain dimensions even at elevated temperatures. They should also be designed or treated in a way that prevents them from catching fire easily and, if they do ignite, the fire should not sustain itself once the initial flame or source of ignition is taken away.
“One of the critical aspects of the new standards is the regulation of nickel release from metal parts of the frame. Parts that come into direct and prolonged contact with the skin must not release more than 0.5 microgrammes per square centimetre per week of nickel,” one of the two people said. “It is crucial in preventing allergic reactions and ensuring the long-term comfort of the wearer as excessive nickel release can cause allergic reactions and skin irritation. By lim
iting nickel release, the standards aim to protect consumers from potential health issues and ensure safer, more comfortable eyewear,” the person said.
By ensuring quality and durability, the measures aim to provide consumers with safer and more reliable eyewear options. The standards, expected by the end of the month, will be introduced by Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), which reports to the department of consumer affairs.
Queries emailed to spokespersons of the consumer affairs ministry and the BIS remained unanswered till press time.
“Frames made from new materials must undergo a clinical evaluation in accordance with appropriate international standards. This ensures that any new material introduced in the market does not pose unforeseen risks to consumers,” the second person said.
“This kind of initiative by the government is truly commendable. With the rapid growth of optical shops, there is a shortage of trained personnel to prescribe glasses. The drawbacks of prescribing non-compliant glasses cannot be overlooked, especially in children, as they can lead to a condition called ‘amblyopia,” said Dr. Rituraj Baruah, principal consultant, ophthalmology at Max Healthcare.