The Illinois Department of Health has raised concerns over the safety of certain solar eclipse glasses distributed in the state, leading to a recall announcement. The problematic glasses, identified as falling short of necessary safety guidelines, were available through Amazon and select stores in Southern Illinois—a key location for observing the upcoming 2024 solar eclipse, notably in areas like Carbondale which lies directly in the eclipse's path of totality.
Marketed on Amazon as "Biniki Solar Eclipse Glasses AAS Approved 2024 – CE & ISO Certified Safe Shades for Direct Sun Viewing (6 Packs)," these products have now been withdrawn. Additionally, they were stocked at several Southern Illinois retailers, including Farm Fresh Market in Breese, Highland Tru Buy, Perry County Marketplace in Pinckneyville, Sinclair Foods in Jerseyville, Steelville Marketplace, and Big John Grocery in Metropolis.
The health alert specifies that the recalled glasses were marked "EN ISO 12312-1:2022." However, to ensure adequate protection during solar viewing, glasses must adhere to the ISO 12312-2 standard. Following the recall notice, some affected retailers have taken to social media over the weekend to inform their customers about the issue.