What is the lead thickness of the side shields typically provided with lead glasses in the industry?

The standard lead thickness of the side shields provided with lead glasses in the industry is typically 0.35 mm. This thickness is chosen because it offers an effective level of protection against scatter radiation, which is essential for safeguarding sensitive areas such as the eyes of personnel working in fluoroscopy or radiology settings.

Lead glasses are designed to protect the wearer from radiation exposure without significantly compromising visibility or comfort. The 0.35 mm lead equivalence strikes a balance by providing adequate protection while still allowing for a lightweight and manageable design.

In practice, lead glasses with side shields serve to reduce the radiation dose to the eyes, which is particularly important since the eyes are sensitive to radiation damage. Thus, the 0.35 mm thickness is an industry standard that reflects a careful consideration of safety and ergonomics for those who frequently work in environments with potential radiological hazards.