Under what conditions should safety glasses be replaced immediately?

Safety glasses are crucial for protecting the eyes from potential hazards in various environments. When safety glasses are scratched or pitted, they can significantly impair vision and reduce the effectiveness of the protective eyewear. Scratches can cause light refraction, creating glare or distortion that may lead to accidents or injuries. Pitting, which is the formation of small depressions on the lens surface, can also obscure the wearer's view. Hence, immediate replacement of safety glasses under these conditions is essential to maintain clear visibility and ensure that the protective features of the eyewear are not compromised.

While it is important to address issues such as dirt or fog, discomfort, and discoloration, these conditions do not immediately threaten one's sight in the same direct way that significant scratches or pitting would.