Sunglasses to Carry Ratings Showing Level of Protection

WASHINGTON — The government today announced a voluntary labeling system to rate non-prescription sunglasses for protection against harmful ultraviolet light from the sun.

The labeling program was developed by the Sunglass Assn. of America with the Food and Drug Administration and is based on a recent report by the American National Standards Institute. The FDA said it already has begun to be phased in, placing non-prescription sunglasses in one of three categories:

--Cosmetic sunglasses, recommended for use in shopping and other activities around town in “non-harsh” sunlight;

--General purpose sunglasses, recommended for outdoor activities such as boating, driving, flying or hiking;

--Special purpose sunglasses, recommended for activities in especially bright sunlight, such as skiing.