Overview
EN ISO 8980-3:2022 - "Ophthalmic optics - Uncut finished spectacle lenses - Part 3: Transmittance specifications and test methods" (ISO 8980-3:2022) sets out requirements and test methods for the transmittance properties of uncut, unmounted spectacle lenses. Published by CEN and identical to the ISO text, this fourth edition updates transmittance classification, measurement procedures and claimed transmittance requirements, and includes normative annexes for calculation and spectral data.
This standard covers visible, ultraviolet (UV) and solar radiation attenuation characteristics and provides procedures for measuring spectral transmittance, luminous transmittance, UV transmittance, and special lens types (photochromic, polarizing, gradient tints). It is not applicable to lenses prescribed for medical reasons, products covered by PPE transmittance standards, or sun‑viewing devices (eclipse viewers). By reference to ISO 21987 it also applies to mounted lenses.
Key topics and technical requirements
- Classification and tint categories: Definitions for tint descriptions and categories and requirements for UV transmittance.
- Spectral and luminous transmittance: Methods to determine spectral transmittance and calculate luminous transmittance and tolerances.
- Driving and road‑use criteria: Specific spectral transmittance considerations for lenses intended for driving, including daytime and twilight/night use and detection of incandescent signal lights (relative visual attenuation coefficients).
- Special lens types:
- Photochromic lenses - activation and transmittance determination procedures.
- Polarizing lenses - mean luminous transmittance, polarizing efficiency and plane of transmission tests.
- Gradient‑tinted lenses - requirements for transmittance across zones.
- UV resistance and claimed properties: Procedures for assessing and reporting UV absorption/transmittance and solar UV calculations (Annexes provide calculation methods).
- Test methods & apparatus: Standardized measurement procedures, reference apparatus and calculation guidance (normative annexes include spectral data and example calculations).
Applications and who uses it
- Lens and eyewear manufacturers - to design, classify and verify lens transmittance properties for compliance and market access.
- Optical testing laboratories - to perform standardized transmittance measurements and issue test reports.
- Opticians and eyewear retailers - to understand lens performance claims (UV protection, tint categories, driving suitability).
- Regulatory and certification bodies - for product conformity assessment and safety evaluation.
- R&D and product development teams - to develop photochromic, polarizing and specialty lenses with verifiable transmittance behavior.
Related standards
- ISO 8980-1, ISO 8980-2 - optical and geometric requirements for uncut and mounted lenses.
- ISO 21987 - applies when lenses are mounted in frames.
- ISO 13666 - referenced for terms and definitions.
Keywords: EN ISO 8980-3:2022, ophthalmic optics, spectacle lenses, transmittance specifications, spectral transmittance, UV transmittance, photochromic lenses, polarizing lenses, test methods, eyewear standards.
