Beware of Fake Solar Eclipse Glasses & Optical Devices

Millions of Americans will watch the Aug. 21 solar eclipse and will purchase eclipse glasses or handheld solar viewers to do so.

However, it’s important to note that not all glasses being sold for this event meet international safety standards for direct viewing of the sun — even if their label claims otherwise.

Only glasses and viewers verified by an accredited testing laboratory to meet ISO 12312-2 are safe to use when viewing the eclipse. This standard requires glasses and viewers to be thousands of times darker than typical sunglasses.

It may be difficult to tell the difference between genuine protective gear and fake glasses/viewers, as some counterfeit makers are placing ISO labels on them.

At Dickstein Associates we’re very focused on safe risk management practices. If you purchased eclipse glasses or handheld solar viewers, check out the following information to be sure your viewing experience will be enjoyable and not a tragedy.

• The American Astronomical Society (AAS) has issued guidance to help eclipse watchers determine if their eclipse glasses or handheld solar viewers are safe.
• NASA recommends that eclipse watchers refer to the AAS’s website for a list of reputable vendors selling solar glasses and viewers and safety tips.

Please pass this information along to your friends and family.