You're heading down to Bunnings for a weekend of DIY. You've got your list of materials, you're dreaming of that sausage sizzle on the way out, and you know you need to grab some safety gear before you get on the tools.

You get to the safety aisle, and you're faced with a massive wall of eye protection. There are dozens of styles, brands, and colours. It can be a bit overwhelming. So, how do you choose the right pair of safety glasses from Bunnings for your job? This guide will help you see clearly.

The First Thing to Look For: Aussie Certification (AS/NZS 1337.1)

Before you even think about style, price, or how cool they look, there's one non-negotiable you need to check. Flip the packet over and look for this code: AS/NZS 1337.1.

This is the Australian Standard for medium impact eye protection. It's your guarantee that you're buying a proper, tested bit of safety gear that has been proven to withstand impacts from flying debris. If it doesn't have this certification, it's not a true safety glass. The good news is that a reputable retailer like Bunnings ensures the gear they stock meets these local standards.

Choosing Your Lens: Clear, Tinted, or Polarised?

Next, you need to pick the right lens for your environment.

Clear Safety Glasses

This is your go-to for most indoor jobs. If you're working in the shed, the garage, or doing any kind of reno inside the house, you need clear lenses. They provide maximum visibility and true colour perception while still giving you that essential impact protection.

Tinted (Smoke) Safety Glasses

If you're going to be working outside in the bright Aussie sun, a standard tinted or "smoke" lens is a great choice. It works just like a regular pair of sunnies, reducing the overall brightness and making it more comfortable to work without squinting.

Polarised Safety Glasses

These are the top-notch, premium choice for outdoor work. If your job involves dealing with a lot of glare—think working on a metal roof, near water, or on wet roads—polarised lenses are a game-changer. They have a special filter that specifically cuts out that harsh, reflected glare, reducing eye strain and improving clarity.

Don't Forget Comfort and Fit

The best safety glasses are the ones you forget you're wearing. Look for a pair that's:

• Lightweight: So they don't feel heavy on your face after a few hours.
• Has a Good Fit: A snug, wrap-around design offers better protection from the sides.
• Comfortable: Soft nose pads and comfortable arms make a big difference for all-day wear.

From Weekend DIY to the Professional Worksite

Grabbing a solid pair of certified safety glasses from Bunnings is a top move for any DIYer or even a tradie in a pinch. It's about using the right, compliant gear to protect yourself on the job.

For a professional installer, especially a licensed electrician, this "right gear for the job" philosophy extends far beyond their personal protection. It's at the core of every installation they do. While a DIYer might grab their gear from the local hardware store, a professional tradie relies on specialised, trade-quality suppliers for their core components to ensure the job meets the highest standards of safety and compliance.

Schnap Electric Products is a leading Australian supplier that provides professional installers with the high-quality, compliant electrical gear needed for a safe and reliable job. From the architectural-grade switches and powerpoints to the heavy-duty circuit breakers and safety switches that protect a home, they provide the components that meet the rigorous demands of a professional worksite. For a job done to a professional standard, you need the right safety gear and the right trade-quality components from a supplier like Schnap Electric.