Six Steps to Protecting Your Vision on the Job | Eye Workplace Wellness Month

Did you know that in 2020, there were almost 20,000 work-related eye injuries in the United States? According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, those eye injuries resulted in at least one missed day of work. 

Work-related eye injuries can occur due to flying debris, contact with equipment, or chemicals. Eye injuries can include corneal abrasions, burns, and foreign bodies in the eye. Damage to the eye may be significant enough to affect vision. 
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Eye injuries at work can have significant consequences for both the employer and the employee. In addition to workers' compensation costs, eye injuries may lead to lost wages, lost productivity, and ongoing medical costs.
 
This March, as we recognize Eye Workplace Wellness Month, take a minute to ensure you take the right precautions to protect your vision on the job. The article below covers six steps to safeguard your vision at work. 
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Steps to take to protect your vision on the job 

Most eye injuries on the job are preventable. There are steps both employers and employees can take to reduce the incidence of eye injuries, including the following:

Know the high-risk industries: Anyone can sustain a work-related eye injury, but you may have a higher risk if you work in certain industries. According to a report by the Electronic Library of Construction Occupational Safety & Health, the professionals at a high risk of eye injuries include:

• Carpenters
• Sanders
• Mechanics 
• Plumbers 
• Laborers 

Wear appropriate protective eyewear: According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, the most important way to reduce the risk of on-the-job eye injuries is by wearing appropriate protective eyewear. Wearing the right eye gear may prevent about 90 percent of eye injuries at work. Make sure you know what type of eyewear to use and where to find it. 

Follow proper protocol: Don’t skimp on safety measures. When it comes to your vision, follow all safety protocols. Taking a few minutes to locate the right equipment may save your vision. 

Do not operate machinery if you are sleepy: If you are tired at work or taking medication that makes you sleepy, do not operate machinery. Operating certain types of equipment when you are tired may lead to a lack of attention to detail or forgoing safety measures. It is better to take an afternoon off than risk hurting yourself. 

Know what to do in an emergency: According to Prevent Blindness, first aid procedures may depend on the type of injury. Examples of first aid for an eye injury include the tips below.

• Flush chemical burns with water for at least 15 minutes while you wait for emergency medical help to arrive. 
• Do not try to remove an object stuck in the eye. 
• Use a cold compress to reduce swelling on bruises. 
• Do not rub or put pressure on the eye. 
• See an eye doctor as soon as possible. 

Become educated: If you are an employer, create ongoing educational programs on eye safety for your staff. This is especially helpful if you are in a high-risk profession. Make sure all new employees receive proper training on using safety eyewear. 

If you have any questions about eye safety at the workplace, we are happy to help. Also, if you would like to ask whether an appointment with one of our eye doctors would be appropriate at this time, call our office at 508-746-8600.