Eye Hazards in the Workplace

Eye safety is critical to any company's overall safety program. A complete analysis of your workplace is necessary to identify potential eye hazards. Consider the following question:

Do you work in an area where any of the following are present?

If you do work in areas with any of these hazards, you are at increased risk for work-related eye injuries and must take steps to protect yourself. Consult your Safety Director for more information about your company's complete safety program.

1-2-3's of Industrial Eye Safety

1. Have your vision checked.

Vision problems, if left uncorrected, can contribute to industrial accidents. You should have regular eye examinations to detect and treat any vision disorder. Participate in vision screenings offered in your workplace.

2. Wear eye protection.

There are many different types of protective eyewear designed for specific operations and hazards. Consult OSHA requirements for industrial safety eyewear when selecting your eye protection and WEAR your eye protection whenever exposed to potential hazards.

In addition, eyewear must fit properly in order to provide needed protection. Have your eyewear fitted by an eye care professional in order to assure maximum comfort AND protection.

3. Seek first-aid quickly.

Despite all efforts to avoid accidents in the workplace, they sometimes happen. Proper first-aid can help prevent additional damage. Use eyewash stations available to you if appropriate and seek assistance from your first-aid responders immediately. Follow-up with your eye care provider after an eye injury.

A comprehensive work safety program with a strong focus on prevention can significantly reduce the incidence of eye injuries in industrial settings. The same eye safety measures should also be used when working with machinery and equipment in and around the home. Remember to use safety glasses or goggles when using electric saws, lawnmowers, weed eaters, bungee cords, and any other high speed machinery. Also, take similar safety measures when working with automobile engines.