As a member of the United States Army, your vision is one of your most valuable assets. Protecting your eyes from potential hazards is paramount to maintaining combat readiness and ensuring mission success. The Army Authorized Protective Eyewear List (APEL) exists to provide you with a selection of high-quality, rigorously tested eyewear options designed to safeguard your vision in various operational environments. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the history, importance, and types of protective eyewear on the APEL, as well as provide essential information on obtaining, fitting, and maintaining your authorized eyewear. Understanding the critical role of protective eyewear in your military career is the first step toward enhanced safety and performance on the battlefield.
Introduction to the Army Authorized Protective Eyewear List
Purpose and Development
The Army Authorized Protective Eyewear List (APEL) is a crucial resource for ensuring soldier safety in combat and training environments. Developed in 2006 to address increasing battlefield eye injuries, APEL serves as a Qualified Product List of commercially produced protective eyewear that meets stringent military ballistic fragmentation requirements. This list undergoes updates every two years to incorporate new technologies and address evolving user needs.
Rigorous Testing Standards
APEL-approved eyewear undergoes extensive testing to ensure optimal protection. According to the U.S. Army, these products are evaluated for ballistic resistance, optical distortion, UV absorption, and abrasion resistance. The military standard requires eyewear to withstand a 0.15 caliber projectile at 640-660 feet per second, surpassing civilian safety standards.
History of Protective Eyewear in the Army
Early Developments
The evolution of military eyewear in the U.S. closely aligns with technological advancements and changing battlefield tactics over the last century. Before World War I, military eyewear was limited to basic wire-rimmed spectacles and aviator goggles, offering minimal protection against hazards like shrapnel and chemical agents.
World War Era Advancements
World War I highlighted the need for more protective eyewear, leading to the development of the Triplex goggles with impact-resistant glass lenses and fitted metal frames. During World War II, the U.S. military mass-produced ballistic eyewear with impact-resistant frames and lenses, including the popular aviator-style sunglasses. This mass production helped make protective eyewear more common and acceptable, influencing mainstream fashion and popular culture.
Modern Innovations
In the 1960s, the U.S. government sponsored experiments to test the ballistic performance of different materials, leading to the adoption of polycarbonate as the standard material for ballistic eyewear. Today, military eyewear often incorporates advanced technologies like GPS, heads-up displays, and night vision compatibility, transforming it into an integrated combat system.
Importance of Eyewear Protection for Soldiers
Safeguarding Vision in High-Risk Environments
Protective eyewear is crucial for soldiers operating in diverse and hazardous environments. Military eyewear meets rigorous standards to provide superior protection against high-impact scenarios and UV rays. Whether deployed in deserts, jungles, Arctic zones, or urban centers, soldiers rely on specialized glasses to maintain visual acuity and combat readiness.
Preventing Injuries and Ensuring Mission Success
Eye injuries are common among active-duty military personnel, potentially impacting both short-term and long-term vision and mission readiness. Proper eye protection shields against fragmenting munitions, airborne debris, and invisible hazards like ultraviolet radiation. By wearing approved protective eyewear, soldiers significantly reduce the risk of eye injuries and maintain optimal performance in the field.
Meeting Stringent Military Standards
The Authorized Protective Eyewear List (APEL) ensures soldiers have access to eyewear that meets both civilian occupational and additional military safety requirements. This includes protection against splash, radiation, dust, mist, impact, and ballistic resistance, guaranteeing the highest level of eye safety for our troops.
Types of Protective Eyewear on the Army's Authorized List
The U.S. Army's Authorized Protective Eyewear List (APEL) includes a variety of spectacles and goggles designed to meet rigorous military standards. These eyewear options are categorized into several types:
Spectacles
Military-approved spectacles include models from brands like ESS, Oakley, Revision, and Wiley X. These offer superior ballistic protection and often feature interchangeable lenses for different light conditions.
Goggles
Goggles on the APEL provide enhanced protection against dust, debris, and extreme weather. Some models, like the Revision Snowhawk, are specifically designed for cold weather operations.
Prescription-Compatible Options
Several APEL-approved eyewear models can accommodate prescription lenses through Universal Prescription Lens Carriers (UPLCs), ensuring soldiers with vision correction needs are protected without compromising visual acuity.
Standard Requirements for Army-Approved Eyewear
Rigorous Testing and Certification
Army-approved protective eyewear must undergo extensive testing to meet stringent military standards. According to the U.S. Army's Authorized Protective Eyewear List (APEL), all eyewear must be examined and tested to meet Army standards for ballistic protection. This includes compliance with both ANSI Z87.1 civilian standards and the more rigorous MIL-PRF-31013 military standard.
Key Performance Requirements
Approved eyewear must demonstrate:
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Ability to withstand high-velocity projectile impacts
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Optical clarity and UV protection
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Proper fit and coverage
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Chemical and environmental resistance
These standards ensure optimal protection against battlefield threats and harsh conditions, safeguarding soldiers' vision and operational effectiveness.
Obtaining Military Eyewear from the Army's Authorized List
Procurement Channels
Military personnel can obtain eyewear from the Army's Authorized Protective Eyewear List (APEL) through various channels. Soldiers can purchase individual APEL products directly from manufacturers' websites, such as Revision Military. Alternatively, orders can be placed using National Stock Numbers (NSNs) through normal supply channels.
Prescription Options
For those requiring corrective lenses, the Universal Prescription Lens Carrier (UPLC) can be obtained through garrison optometry clinics, deployed optometry clinics, or medical support sections. Deployed soldiers can also access replacement prescription lenses via the G-Eyes website, ensuring continuous access to essential eye protection.
Properly Fitting and Maintaining Army Protective Eyewear
Ensuring Proper Fit
Proper fit is crucial for Army protective eyewear to provide optimal vision and safety. Eyewear should sit comfortably on the bridge of the nose and ears without pinching or slipping. Adjust straps or nose pads as needed for a secure fit.
Regular Maintenance
Clean lenses daily with a microfiber cloth to remove dirt and debris. Inspect frames for loose screws or damage. Store eyewear in a protective case when not in use to prevent scratches. Replace worn parts like nose pads or straps as needed.
Replacement and Disposal
Replace military eyewear every 2-3 years or when damaged to maintain protection. Dispose of old eyewear properly by separating lenses from frames and destroying components to prevent reuse. Proper care ensures continued eye safety and mission readiness.
The Benefits of Using Army-Authorized Eyewear
Enhanced Protection and Safety
Army-authorized protective eyewear offers unparalleled safety benefits. These glasses meet stringent ballistic standards, protecting soldiers' eyes from high-velocity impacts, fragmentation, and environmental hazards. The Authorized Protective Eyewear List (APEL) ensures that all approved eyewear undergoes rigorous testing for durability and effectiveness.
Improved Visual Performance
Military-grade eyewear incorporates advanced technologies like Prizm lenses and HD Polarization. These features enhance visual clarity, contrast, and depth perception, providing soldiers with a crucial tactical advantage in combat situations. Improved vision contributes to better situational awareness and target acquisition, ultimately boosting overall mission effectiveness.
Customization and Compatibility
APEL eyewear offers versatility to meet individual needs. Soldiers can choose styles based on comfort and mission requirements. Prescription lenses can be integrated using the Universal Prescription Lens Carrier, ensuring clear vision for all personnel. Additionally, these glasses are designed to be compatible with other essential equipment, such as communication headsets.
Common Misconceptions About Military Eyewear
"One Size Fits All" Myth
Many believe all military eyewear is identical, but this is far from true. The Army Authorized Protective Eyewear List (APEL) includes various types designed for different environments and missions. From ballistic goggles to wraparound sunglasses, each serves a unique purpose.
Overestimating Civilian Eyewear
A common error is assuming regular sunglasses provide adequate protection. However, standard FDA safety regulations for non-prescription sunglasses fall short of military requirements. Military eyewear must meet stringent ballistic standards, withstanding impacts far beyond civilian norms.
Maintenance Misconceptions
Some soldiers underestimate the importance of proper care for their protective eyewear. Regular cleaning and inspection are crucial for maintaining optimal performance and safety. Neglecting maintenance can compromise the eyewear's protective capabilities, potentially putting the wearer at risk in critical situations.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Army-authorized protective eyewear plays a crucial role in safeguarding soldiers' vision and enhancing their operational effectiveness. By understanding the history, types, and requirements of this essential equipment, you can make informed decisions about selecting and maintaining the right eyewear for your needs. Remember that proper fit and regular maintenance are key to maximizing the benefits of your protective eyewear. As technology advances, you can expect continued improvements in comfort, durability, and performance. By staying informed about current standards and future developments, you'll be well-equipped to protect your vision and maintain combat readiness in any environment.