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Face Shields and Goggles

Note: Please note that all information provided is general, and is an aggregation of and attributed to the sources included below. Use your own judgment and regulatory guidance to make decisions around PPE usage in the workplace.

Last Updated: 9/14/20

When should I use face shields?

The primary purpose of face shields is eye protection, and the CDC does not currently recommend face shields as substitutes for masks, including for children. They may, however, be used instead of a mask when masks are not possible – for example, for those who are deaf or hard of hearing or who interact with others who are hearing impaired.

How should face shields and goggles be used?

The CDC advises that when used in addition to masks, face shields provide extra protection from person-to-person droplet spread, and can help minimize contamination of masks. While not necessarily a must-have depending on the work environment, they are a great idea in situations where close proximity to other employees and customers is difficult to avoid, such as in a hair salon or on an assembly line.

What should you look for when shopping for face shields and goggles?

As per the CDC, face shields should wrap around the sides of the wearer’s face and extend below the chin. Hooded face shields, when available, provide extra protection. Face shields that attach directly to helmets should be worn when helmets are used.

When do I replace my face shields?

Disposable face shields should only be worn for a single use, and reusable face shields should be cleaned and disinfected after each shift and stored at the work facility.

View Other PPE Guidance and FAQs

Detailed Sources

All guidance compiled from these public sources as of October 2, 2020. Please confirm guidance at the links provided below.

This PPE Information is intended to be used as a general guide for businesses. The PPE needs of your particular business and employees may vary significantly and each business is responsible for making its own decisions about those needs. All users should consult the links provided herein for the latest official health information, as the PPE Planning Tool summaries may not accurately reflect the current content of those official health links or the latest updates thereto. The State of New Jersey and the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (collectively, the “State”) is not responsible for the performance or accuracy of the PPE Planning Tool. By using the PPE Planning Tool, the user does hereby release any and all claims, causes of action, and demands against the State that are derived from its use.