13 Mar 90% of Eye Injuries at Work Could Have Been Prevented

Every year, Prevent Blindness, the eye health and safety organization, recognizes March as Workplace Eye Wellness Month. This annual campaign is intended to raise awareness of potential eye hazards in the workplace and encourage employees to take their eye health seriously.

According to Prevent Blindness, thousands of eye injuries occur in the workplace every day. Nevertheless, 90% of these injuries could be prevented by taking proper safety precautions.

Throughout this month-long observance (and every month), it’s imperative to be aware of common occupational eye hazards and safety measures that can help minimize related injuries.

Top Causes of Eye Injuries

Workplace eye injuries can result from a variety of causes, including the following:
• Flying debris
• Fallen objects
• Excessive screen use
• Equipment- and tool-related incidents
• Chemical splashes
• Harmful radiation

Occupational eye injuries can vary in nature. They may involve blunt force trauma, such as a black eye, or penetrating trauma, such as a corneal abrasion. They may also entail chemical burns, digital eye strain or retinal disorders. In any case, these conditions could carry severe consequences. Some injuries may even have lasting impacts, causing permanent pain or vision loss.

Protection Against Eye Injuries

To protect your eyes from injuries on the job, consider these recommendations:
• Identify and do what you can to mitigate possible eye hazards in the workplace before beginning your tasks for the day.
• Select safety glasses or goggles that are appropriate for the job at hand and fit your unique facial features. Your safety eyewear should rest firmly on the top of your nose and close to, but not against, your face.
• Utilize safety eyewear that is properly ventilated for the work you are performing. Unless you are working near chemical splash hazards, use safety glasses or goggles with plenty of side ventilation.
• Don’t use safety eyewear that gets foggy. If your safety glasses or goggles fog easily, try another model with additional ventilation or coat them with an antifog liquid.
• Keep your safety eyewear clean. Scratches and dirt can reduce your vision and cause glare, potentially contributing to accidents and injuries.
• Note that if you wear prescription glasses, it’s crucial to select safety eyewear designed to fit over them or use eyewear made with your prescription.
• Know how to respond to an eye injury. If you or a co-worker gets hurt on the job, report it promptly and seek medical attention.

Reach out to your supervisor if you have any further questions about ensuring eye safety in the workplace.