Technical Vault: KleenGuard™ Nemesis™ Small Safety Glasses 38478

The KleenGuard™ Nemesis™ Small Safety Glasses 38478 are reusable, non-prescription industrial safety glasses engineered specifically for workers with smaller, slimmer, or narrower facial profiles. This configuration combines a clear polycarbonate lens, KleenVision™ anti-fog treatment, scratch-resistant hardcoat, compact wraparound frame, reinforced integral nosepiece, wider bridge, soft-touch temples, and an included neck cord.

This Technical Vault entry consolidates the product’s identity, small-fit geometry, protective classifications, anti-fog performance, lens construction, frame materials, optical characteristics, PPE compatibility, controlled-environment considerations, cleaning requirements, inspection criteria, storage guidance, and use limitations. Final eyewear selection must be based on the employer’s documented hazard assessment and confirmation that the frame provides correct coverage and retention for the individual wearer.

• Manufacturer: Ansell
• Brand: KleenGuard™
• Product family: Nemesis™ Small Safety Glasses
• Manufacturer code: 38478
• SOSCleanroom SKU: 38478
• UPC: 036000384789
• Product type: Reusable, non-prescription industrial safety glasses
• Fit category: Small frame for smaller, slimmer, or narrower facial profiles
• Lens color: Clear
• Lens material: Polycarbonate
• Lens treatment: KleenVision™ anti-fog coating and scratch-resistant hardcoat
• Frame color: Black
• Temple-tip color: Pink
• Frame style: Sport-style wraparound frame
• Frame material: Nylon
• Temple-pad material: Thermoplastic rubber
• Fastener material: Stainless steel screw components listed in current Ansell product details
• Lens geometry: High-base-curve wraparound construction
• Base curve: 8.25
• Nosepiece: Integral-to-lens reinforced nosepiece with wider bridge geometry
• Temple design: Soft-touch temples with thermoplastic rubber contact pads
• Included accessory: Neck cord
• Size: Small
• Country of origin: Taiwan
• RightCycle™ eligibility: Yes, subject to current program availability and acceptance criteria
• SOSCleanroom selling quantity: 12 safety glasses per case

The Nemesis Small frame is designed for wearers whose facial width, temple spacing, or head dimensions are not adequately accommodated by standard universal-size safety glasses. Standard frames can sit too wide, extend too far from the cheeks, slide down the nose, or create excessive side gaps on smaller facial profiles.

Ansell describes this model as fitting smaller and slimmer heads without requiring extensive adjustment. The compact wraparound geometry, stronger nosepiece, wider bridge, and soft-touch temples are intended to improve lens positioning, retention, wearer comfort, and peripheral coverage.

Safety-eyewear performance depends on more than the impact rating printed on the protector. The lens must remain correctly positioned relative to the eyes and facial contours. Oversized glasses can move during bending, walking, climbing, inspection, assembly, or equipment operation and may create larger openings around the sides or beneath the lens.

• Reduces excessive frame width on smaller wearers
• Helps keep the lens centered relative to the eyes
• Helps limit side and lower-edge coverage gaps
• Reduces downward slippage during normal movement
• Helps decrease repeated touching and adjustment
• Can improve compatibility with masks, hoods, hard hats, and hearing protection
• Supports more consistent eye-protection use throughout the shift

1. Place the glasses on the wearer without forcing the temples outward.
2. Confirm that the nosepiece sits securely without painful pressure or excessive movement.
3. Verify that the lens remains centered in front of both eyes.
4. Inspect the sides and lower edge for excessive gaps.
5. Ask the wearer to look upward, downward, and from side to side.
6. Confirm that the frame does not obstruct required vision.
7. Ask the wearer to bend, walk, turn the head, and perform representative work movements.
8. Verify that the glasses remain securely positioned without repeated adjustment.
9. Repeat the assessment with all required head, respiratory, hearing, and face protection.

Ansell identifies the Nemesis Small product family as manufactured to comply with ANSI/ISEA Z87.1-2020 and as Z87+ high-velocity impact rated. The Z87+ designation indicates that the protector meets the applicable high-impact requirements for spectacle-style occupational eye protection.

Older SKU-specific literature may reference ANSI Z87.1-2010 or ANSI Z87.1+ 2010. Current product content should use ANSI/ISEA Z87.1-2020 as the principal standard reference. Historical references may remain relevant when reviewing prior certificates, supplier records, procurement files, or documentation associated with an older manufacturing lot.

The Z87+ marking addresses high-impact performance under the applicable spectacle requirements. It does not mean the glasses provide complete enclosure or protection against every eye and face hazard.

• Impact rating does not make the glasses chemical-splash goggles
• Wraparound geometry does not make the eyewear dust-tight or gas-tight
• A face shield may be required in addition to primary eye protection
• Welding, cutting, brazing, and laser work require specialized optical filters
• High-energy or multidirectional hazards may require greater enclosure
• Correct fit must be verified for the individual wearer
• Damaged eyewear must be removed from service regardless of its original rating

Fogging occurs when moisture-laden air contacts a cooler lens and condenses into microscopic droplets. These droplets scatter light and can obscure workpieces, tools, labels, controls, walking surfaces, and other task-critical information.

The 38478 configuration uses KleenVision™ premium anti-fog technology. Ansell states that the coating is engineered to provide anti-fog performance 100 times greater than the ANSI Z87.1-2020 “X” mark requirement and exceeds the EN 166 “N” mark test for resistance to fogging.

• Helps maintain clearer vision in humid work areas
• Supports visibility during temperature transitions
• Helps reduce fogging associated with masks and respirators
• Helps manage moisture during strenuous physical work
• Can reduce repeated lens wiping and eyewear adjustment
• Supports more consistent use of required eye protection
• May reduce face-touch behavior caused by obscured vision

Anti-fog treatment reduces the likelihood, severity, or duration of fogging but does not guarantee completely fog-free performance under every condition. Results can be affected by humidity, temperature differential, perspiration, exertion, airflow, respirator exhaust, lens contamination, cleaning technique, coating wear, and chemical exposure.

• Do not assume the coating eliminates the need for correct mask and respirator fit
• Check airflow direction when repeated fogging occurs
• Do not apply unapproved household anti-fog products
• Do not aggressively polish or scrub the coated surface
• Avoid cleaners that may degrade the anti-fog treatment
• Replace the glasses when fog resistance becomes ineffective or uneven

Polycarbonate is commonly used in occupational safety eyewear because it combines low weight, optical transparency, impact performance, and ultraviolet filtration. The clear configuration is intended primarily for normally illuminated indoor work and other applications where natural color recognition is important.

The clear lens is intended for normally illuminated environments where a tinted lens could reduce visibility or interfere with color recognition. It does not provide sunglass-style brightness or glare reduction.

• Suitable for indoor manufacturing and assembly
• Supports laboratory and inspection work
• Supports quality-control and color-recognition tasks
• Suitable for warehouses and facility-maintenance areas
• Appropriate for controlled work where clear visibility is required
• May be unsuitable for intense outdoor glare without additional evaluation
• Does not replace specialized optical protection for radiation hazards

The scratch-resistant hardcoat helps protect the polycarbonate lens from routine contact and light abrasion. The coating improves durability but does not make the lens scratch-proof.

• Remove loose grit and abrasive particles before wiping
• Avoid dry wiping when dust or metal particles are present
• Use a soft optical tissue, microfiber cloth, or approved cleanroom wiper
• Do not use scouring pads, abrasive towels, or rough paper products
• Replace eyewear when scratches interfere with clear vision
• Store the lens away from sharp tools and abrasive materials

The 8.25 base-curve lens follows the general contours of the face and extends protection toward the sides of the eyes. This high-wrap design offers broader peripheral coverage than a flatter conventional spectacle lens.

The effectiveness of the wraparound geometry depends on correct fit. A frame that is too wide can sit away from the wearer’s cheeks or shift during movement. The smaller Nemesis frame is intended to keep the lens closer and more consistently positioned on narrower facial profiles.

Ansell identifies the nose pad as integral to the lens and describes the small-fit design as having a stronger nosepiece and wider bridge for enhanced comfort. The integral structure eliminates a separately attached adjustable pad while providing a stable contact point for the frame.

• Supports stable lens positioning
• Helps distribute pressure across the bridge of the nose
• Reduces the number of separate adjustable components
• Provides a durable sport-style construction
• Should be inspected for cracks, deformation, and sharp edges
• Must fit securely without painful pressure or excessive movement

The temples incorporate soft-touch contact surfaces intended to improve comfort and help maintain eyewear position. Current Ansell product details identify nylon, thermoplastic rubber, polycarbonate, and stainless steel screw components in the overall construction.

• Soft temple contact helps reduce pressure during prolonged wear
• Thermoplastic rubber pads support grip and retention
• Compact temple geometry supports smaller head dimensions
• Pink temple tips provide visual identification of this configuration
• Temple position should be checked with hard hats and hearing protection
• Cracked, loose, or deformed temples require product replacement

Eyewear that sits too wide, slides, pinches, or fogs is more likely to be removed or repeatedly adjusted. Correct sizing, comfortable contact points, stable retention, and clear vision can support more consistent compliance with eye-protection requirements.

• Manufacturing and production operations
• Assembly, inspection, checking, and quality control
• Laboratory and technical work
• Cleanroom-support and controlled-environment operations
• Construction and facility maintenance
• Oil, gas, petrochemical, and energy operations
• Warehousing, shipping, receiving, and material handling
• Transportation, automotive, aviation, and fleet maintenance
• Utilities and equipment servicing
• Indoor work requiring clear lenses and natural color recognition
• Humid or temperature-variable work environments
• Tasks requiring masks, respirators, hoods, or protective headgear
• Safety programs requiring a dedicated small-fit eyewear option

Safety glasses must be evaluated as part of the complete PPE system. Hard hats, respirators, masks, earmuffs, hoods, bouffants, face shields, and other protective equipment can alter eyewear position or interfere with seals and contact surfaces.

• Confirm that temples do not cross tight-fitting respirator sealing surfaces
• Verify that the frame does not interfere with disposable-mask positioning
• Check that mask airflow does not direct excessive moisture toward the lens
• Ensure earmuff cushions remain fully seated around the ears
• Confirm hard-hat suspension components do not push the glasses downward
• Verify compatibility with hoods, bouffants, and face coverings
• Check that face-shield brackets do not contact or displace the frame
• Confirm secure fit during representative work movement
• Do not force the glasses over prescription eyewear unless evaluated for that use

The employer should identify the source, direction, frequency, duration, and severity of each eye hazard before selecting protection. Spectacle-style eyewear may be suitable for general impact and particle exposure but may not provide sufficient enclosure for splash, fine dust, aerosols, or multidirectional hazards.

Industrial safety certification and cleanroom suitability are separate determinations. ANSI/ISEA impact compliance does not establish sterility, cleanroom classification, low particle release, low outgassing, disinfectant compatibility, or suitability for aseptic processing.

The small-fit geometry and anti-fog treatment may help reduce eyewear movement and repeated adjustment in controlled areas. This can support contamination-control discipline, but the product must still be evaluated under the facility’s material-qualification, gowning, cleaning, disinfection, and area-segregation procedures.

• Confirm correct individual fit before assigning the glasses
• Assign eyewear by employee or controlled area when practical
• Stage cleaned eyewear on the designated clean side of the gowning process
• Handle the glasses by the temples rather than the lens
• Complete fit adjustments before entering the critical work zone
• Do not place eyewear directly on benches, carts, gowning seats, or critical surfaces
• Do not transfer glasses between uncontrolled and controlled areas without approved cleaning
• Use only facility-approved cleaning agents and compatible low-lint wipes
• Inspect for haze, residue, scratches, coating damage, and retained contamination
• Define actions for dropped, displaced, contaminated, damaged, or repeatedly fogging eyewear
• Replace the glasses when they no longer meet the facility’s cleanliness or visibility criteria

1. Inspect the eyewear before beginning the gowning process.
2. Clean or disinfect the glasses under the approved facility procedure.
3. Stage the eyewear in the designated clean-side location.
4. Handle the glasses only by approved contact points such as the temples.
5. Don the eyewear at the step specified by the gowning SOP.
6. Confirm that the small frame sits securely and provides adequate coverage.
7. Complete nose and temple positioning before final glove donning when permitted.
8. Confirm compatibility with the mask, respirator, hood, bouffant, and face shield.
9. Avoid touching or readjusting the glasses inside the critical work area.
10. Follow the defined deviation procedure if the eyewear is dropped, displaced, contaminated, or heavily fogged.

1. Wash and dry hands or don clean gloves as required by the work area.
2. Inspect the lens for loose dust, grit, metal particles, dried residue, or abrasive contamination.
3. Remove loose particles using clean air or a gentle water rinse when permitted.
4. Apply an approved optical cleaner, mild soap and water, or another validated cleaning solution.
5. Wipe gently with a soft optical tissue, microfiber cloth, or approved cleanroom wiper.
6. Avoid aggressive pressure or repeated polishing of the anti-fog coating.
7. Rinse where required to remove soap or cleaner residue.
8. Dry using a clean, soft, non-abrasive material.
9. Inspect the lens, coating, nosepiece, temples, temple pads, fasteners, cord, and safety markings before reuse.

Inspect the eyewear before each use and after any impact, chemical contact, abnormal heat exposure, or cleaning process that could affect protection or optical performance. Remove the glasses from service when any condition could reduce fit, clarity, impact performance, or coating function.

• Cracked, chipped, warped, or deformed lens
• Deep scratches or abrasion that interferes with vision
• Persistent haze, clouding, distortion, or discoloration
• Damaged, irregular, or ineffective anti-fog coating
• Cracked, sharp, or permanently deformed nosepiece
• Loose, cracked, bent, or deformed temples
• Damaged or detached thermoplastic-rubber temple pads
• Loose or damaged fasteners
• Loss of secure fit during normal movement
• Excessive gaps caused by incorrect sizing or deformation
• Illegible required safety markings
• Exposure to a significant impact event
• Chemical contact that may have degraded lens or frame components
• Residue that cannot be removed through the approved cleaning process

Store the glasses in a cool, clean, and dry location away from direct sunlight, excessive heat, abrasive materials, heavy objects, and chemical vapors. The coated lens and small-frame geometry should be protected from unnecessary contact or deformation.

• Use an individual case, sleeve, or designated storage compartment
• Do not store with sharp tools, fasteners, metal parts, or abrasive materials
• Do not place heavy objects on the lens or temples
• Avoid prolonged storage in hot vehicles or near process heat
• Keep away from solvent, adhesive, fuel, and cleaning-chemical vapors
• Store cleaned eyewear separately from contaminated PPE
• Do not allow the lens to rest against rough surfaces
• Do not force the small frame around oversized objects during storage
• Use the neck cord as a temporary retention aid rather than long-term storage

Ansell lists the Nemesis Small product family as eligible for the RightCycle™ Program. Actual eligibility, contamination restrictions, collection methods, geographic availability, minimum quantities, and accepted product conditions should be confirmed with the current program before the glasses are placed into a recycling stream.

The SOSCleanroom purchase quantity for SKU 38478 is 12 safety glasses per case. Manufacturer and distributor records may describe this as 12 pairs per box or may reference a larger master carton containing multiple inner boxes. The larger logistics quantity should not be presented as the customer selling unit unless confirmed by the active SOSCleanroom inventory and purchasing record.

• Not a sealed chemical-splash goggle
• Not dust-tight or gas-tight eyewear
• Not welding, cutting, brazing, or infrared-radiation protection
• Not laser-protective eyewear
• Not electrical arc-flash or electrically insulating protection
• Not intended for molten-metal splash
• Not intended as sunglass-style glare protection
• Not supplied sterile
• Not represented as autoclavable
• Not represented as cleanroom-certified or low-shedding eyewear
• Not a substitute for a face shield where full-face protection is required
• Not designed as over-the-glasses eyewear for prescription spectacles
• Not guaranteed compatible with every respirator, hard hat, hood, mask, or hearing protector
• Anti-fog performance does not guarantee completely fog-free vision under every condition
• Small sizing must be verified for each individual wearer

Legacy SKU-specific documentation may reference ANSI Z87.1-2010, Jackson Safety or Kimberly-Clark Professional branding, 12 pairs per box, polycarbonate construction, clear anti-fog protection, and small-frame sizing. Current Ansell documentation identifies ANSI/ISEA Z87.1-2020 compliance, Z87+ high-velocity impact performance, an 8.25 base curve, stronger nosepiece, wider bridge, soft-touch temples, KleenVision™ premium anti-fog treatment, scratch-resistant hardcoat, 99.9% UVA/UVB/UVC filtration, neck-cord inclusion, and RightCycle™ eligibility. Where certification traceability is required, verify the documentation applicable to the supplied production lot.

KleenGuard™ protective eyewear was historically marketed through Kimberly-Clark Professional and may appear under Kimberly-Clark Professional, Jackson Safety, KleenGuard™, or Ansell in historical and current documentation. Current product-page content should use the active Ansell portfolio identity while preserving the established KleenGuard™ Nemesis™ Small product name and manufacturer code 38478.

This Technical Vault entry is intended to support product evaluation, procurement, training, fit assessment, controlled-environment planning, and workplace PPE review. It does not replace the manufacturer’s instructions, current product markings, an individual fit evaluation, workplace hazard assessment, exposure-control plan, cleanroom qualification, facility SOP, or regulatory guidance. Verify current certificates, declarations, chemical-compatibility information, and lot-specific documentation when required by the organization’s quality or safety system.

Technical insight: The Nemesis Small 38478 is strongest where a properly proportioned small-frame fit, clear indoor visibility, premium anti-fog performance, scratch resistance, wraparound peripheral coverage, Z87+ impact protection, ultraviolet filtration, and reduced eyewear-adjustment behavior must work together.

Technical Vault updated: Jul. 2026 (SOS Technical Staff)

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