ASTM F2879-22

Overview

ASTM F2879-22: Standard Specification for Eye Protective Devices for Airsoft Sports specifies requirements for eye protective devices (EPDs) designed for participants in airsoft sports using 6-mm airsoft projectiles. This standard aims to minimize or significantly reduce the risk of eye injury resulting from impact or penetration by airsoft projectiles. ASTM F2879-22 covers EPDs for both recreational and tactical airsoft applications, providing detailed guidance on performance, construction, testing methods, and product marking.

The standard addresses performance and safety to protect not just the eye itself but also the adnexa (the surrounding areas such as eyelids and lacrimal apparatus). While it ensures the effectiveness of EPDs in mitigating eye injuries, it does not extend to protection for other parts of the head.

Key Topics

• Scope and Applicability

  • Applies to all EPDs used in airsoft sports where 6-mm projectiles are involved.
  • Encompasses devices used in both recreational and tactical airsoft settings.
  • Does not preclude the wearing of prescription glasses or contact lenses under EPDs, provided manufacturer instructions are followed.

• Performance Requirements

  • EPDs must pass rigorous optical and mechanical performance tests.
  • Requirements include optical clarity, field of view, lens strength, and resistance to impacts from 6-mm airsoft projectiles.
  • Devices must prevent passage of a 4.5 mm probe into the orbital area under normal and test conditions.

• Material and Construction

  • EPDs must be constructed from materials that are durable, non-irritating to skin, resistant to sweat, oils, and sunlight.
  • All ventilation openings must be designed to prevent probe passage, ensuring no direct contact with the eye area.

• Testing and Marking

  • EPDs are subject to standard optical and mechanical test methods, simulating real-world conditions and impacts.
  • Every product must be permanently marked with the manufacturer’s identification and date of manufacture.
  • Clear instructions and warnings must accompany each product to ensure proper user handling and safety.

Applications

ASTM F2879-22 is essential for manufacturers, testing laboratories, and regulatory agencies involved in the production, certification, and sale of airsoft eye protective devices:

• Airsoft Sports Facilities: Ensures all participants are equipped with certified eye protection, significantly reducing the risk of game-related eye injuries.
• Product Manufacturers: Provides a framework to develop, test, and certify compliant EPDs for airsoft, facilitating product acceptance in international markets.
• Retailers and Distributors: Assists in sourcing and supplying eye protection products that meet recognized safety standards.
• Testing Laboratories: Offers detailed procedures for evaluating the protective performance and optical quality of EPDs used in airsoft environments.

Related Standards

ASTM F2879-22 references and aligns with several key international safety and optical standards, ensuring broad applicability:

• ASTM D1003: Test method for haze and luminous transmittance of transparent plastics.
• ASTM F1776: Standard specification for eye protective devices for paintball sports.
• ASTM F2679: Specification for 6 mm projectiles used with airsoft guns.
• ASTM F2748: Specification for airsoft guns.
• ANSI Z87.1: Occupational and educational personal eye and face protection standard.
• CSA Z262.6-02/14: Specifications for facially featured headforms.
• EN 168: Personal eye protection - Non-optical test methods for headforms.

By adhering to ASTM F2879-22, stakeholders in the airsoft industry help ensure maximum eye safety, product reliability, and regulatory compliance. This standard contributes significantly to injury prevention, product liability protection, and user confidence in airsoft sports environments.