New version of EN 16128:2025, testing of spectacle frames and sunglasses for nickel release, was published

Vol. 1509 | 23 Dec 2025

EN 16128:2025 updates the reference method for nickel release from spectacle frames and sunglasses, clarifying coating versus migration testing, expanding instructions for sample preparation and test locations, permitting alternative migration setups, and adding photographic documentation and new quality-control samples to support REACH compliance.

CEN has published EN 16128:2025, “Ophthalmic optics — Reference method for the testing of spectacle frames and sunglasses for nickel release,” replacing EN 16128:2015. The standard remains the key reference method used by laboratories and manufacturers to support demonstrating conformity with the EU REACH nickel release limit for metal parts intended for direct and prolonged skin contact. 

EN 16128:2025 has the following significant technical changes:

• Clause 4 has been revised to provide a clearer scientific explanation of why a sample may fail the coating test yet pass the migration test. It also clarifies that the coating test is not a screening test, because a pass enables a product to be labelled as REACH compliant. This is reinforced by an updated flowchart (Figure 1). The caution about careful sample handling to prevent additional damage has been strengthened.
• Clause 5 now highlights that if a sample fails the coating test, all parts of the sample must undergo migration testing—not only the area that failed.
• Clause 6 explains that lenses must remain in the frame to protect the groove during the simulated wear and corrosion procedure. While this relates to EN 12472, the new Annex A provides illustrations of mounts that can be used to secure sample frames in the tumbling barrel.
• Clauses 7 and 8 now refer to the new normative Annex B for guidance on where to test the sides. Both clauses also recommend keeping the test or dummy lenses in the frame during testing.
• Clause 7 includes more detailed guidance on where to mask frames before conducting the coating test. New quality control samples are introduced in Annex D, and photographic records of the samples are now required in the test report.
• Clause 8 now allows the migration process to be carried out using a hermetically sealed cabinet and a laboratory oven, as an alternative to a climate chamber. The control solution concentration has been doubled and the volume halved to avoid overloading the test paper, which is now suggested to be 10% larger. As with Clause 7, photographic records are now required in the test report.
• Annexes B (Measuring device and identifying where to test sides), C (Cutting and masking of test samples (Coating test)), and D (Quality control material for the coating test) now include photographic figures to illustrate sample preparation, as photos provide clearer guidance than drawings. The examples shown contain no manufacturer markings and are not intended to promote any specific manufacturer or style.
• Annex E has been updated to recommend folding the sealing film over the test or dummy lenses, rather than wrapping it around the rim.

 

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