ISO 12870-2024 PDF

Full title and description

ISO 12870:2024 — Ophthalmic optics — Spectacle frames — Requirements and test methods. This International Standard specifies fundamental requirements and corresponding test methods for unglazed spectacle frames intended for use with prescription lenses, covering mass-produced and certain custom-made frame types, including rimless, semi-rimless and folding frames, and frames produced by additive manufacturing.

Abstract

This document defines performance and safety requirements and standardized test procedures for spectacle frames at the point of sale by the manufacturer or supplier to the retailer. It addresses materials, dimensional and mechanical requirements, durability and environmental resistance tests, and specific provisions for rimless and semi-rimless mounts, folding frames, clip-on mounts (frame parts only) and frames manufactured by technologies such as 3D printing. It also notes exclusions where other standards apply (for example, spectacle frames used in eye protection and certain sunglasses applications).

General information

• Status: Published
• Publication date: November 2024
• Publisher: International Organization for Standardization (ISO)
• ICS / categories: 11.040.70 (Ophthalmic optics)
• Edition / version: 5 (2024)
• Number of pages: 36

Scope

Applies to unglazed spectacle frames offered for sale by manufacturers or suppliers to retailers. The standard covers mass-produced frame types (including rimless, semi-rimless and folding frames), frames produced by additive manufacturing and from natural organic materials, the frame parts of clip-ons designed to attach to a particular spectacle model, and prescription inserts designed to attach to certain eye-protector or sunglass models. It is not intended for spectacle frames used specifically for eye protection (where ISO 16321‑1 applies) or for sunglasses with afocal filters (where ISO 12312‑1 applies). Certain clauses may be applicable to custom-made frames as noted in the standard.

Key topics and requirements

• Dimensional and fit requirements for spectacle frames and mounts.
• Mechanical strength and durability tests (hinge and temple endurance, front/frame flexing, screw retention, etc.).
• Resistance to environmental factors (humidity, temperature, corrosion for metal parts, chemical exposure where relevant).
• Requirements and test methods specific to rimless and semi-rimless mounting systems.
• Provisions for frames made by additive manufacturing and from natural organic materials.
• Marking, identification and information the manufacturer/supplier must provide at point of sale.
• Exclusions and interfaces with other standards (e.g., eye protection and sunglass-specific standards).

Typical use and users

Used by spectacle-frame manufacturers, product designers, testing laboratories, conformity assessment bodies, regulatory authorities and retailers to verify that frames meet internationally agreed safety, durability and performance levels prior to sale. Also referenced by procurement specialists, opticians and standards committees involved in ophthalmic products.

Related standards

Interfaces and cross-references include other ophthalmic optics and eye-protection standards (for example ISO 16321‑1 for eye protection and ISO 12312‑1 for certain sunglasses). ISO 12870:2024 replaces ISO 12870:2016 and sits alongside related ISO documents addressing vocabulary, measuring systems and component specifications for spectacle frames.

Keywords

spectacle frames, ophthalmic optics, frame requirements, test methods, rimless frames, semi-rimless, folding frames, additive manufacturing, durability tests, ISO 12870

FAQ

Q: What is this standard?

A: ISO 12870:2024 is an international standard that specifies requirements and standardized test methods for unglazed spectacle frames intended for prescription lenses.

Q: What does it cover?

A: It covers dimensional, mechanical and environmental performance requirements and test procedures for mass-produced spectacle frames (including rimless, semi-rimless and folding types), certain custom-made provisions, frames made by additive manufacturing and natural materials, and frame parts of clip-ons and prescription inserts.

Q: Who typically uses it?

A: Manufacturers, testing laboratories, opticians, conformity assessors, retailers and regulatory authorities involved with spectacle frames and ophthalmic products.

Q: Is it current or superseded?

A: It is the current edition published in 2024 and supersedes ISO 12870:2016.

Q: Is it part of a series?

A: It is part of the ophthalmic optics family of ISO standards (ISO/TC 172/SC 7) and is used alongside standards for vocabulary, measuring systems and related eyewear safety standards.

Q: What are the key keywords?

A: Spectacle frames, requirements, test methods, ophthalmic optics, durability, additive manufacturing, rimless, semi-rimless, folding.