Eye Protection — Preventing Injuries at Work

Overview

Eye injuries are among the most devastating workplace accidents, potentially causing permanent vision loss or blindness. Proper eye protection prevents nearly all work-related eye injuries, making selection and consistent use of appropriate eyewear critical for maintaining vision and safety.

Why This Is Important

Over 20,000 workplace eye injuries occur annually in the United States, with 90% being preventable through proper eye protection. The average eye injury costs $48,000 in medical expenses and lost productivity, but the personal cost of vision loss is immeasurable.

Eyes are extremely delicate and don’t heal like other body parts. Even minor injuries can cause permanent damage, and serious injuries can result in complete blindness. Unlike other injuries, eye damage often cannot be repaired, making prevention the only effective protection.

90%
Preventable Injuries
Percentage of workplace eye injuries that could be prevented with proper eye protection

Best Practices & Safety Tips

Choose Appropriate Protection

Select eye protection based on specific hazards present - impact, chemical, radiation, or combination exposures.

Ensure Proper Fit

Safety eyewear should fit snugly without pressure points, gaps, or sliding during normal head movement.

Keep Lenses Clean

Clean lenses regularly with appropriate cleaners and lint-free cloths to maintain clear vision and protection.

Inspect Before Use

Check for scratches, cracks, or damage that could compromise protection or vision clarity before each use.

Types of Eye Protection

  • Safety Glasses - Basic protection against impact from flying particles. Must have side protection and meet ANSI Z87.1 standards.
  • Safety Goggles - Complete eye socket protection against chemicals, dust, and splashes. Form tight seal around eye area.
  • Face Shields - Protect entire face from chemical splash or large flying objects. Must be used with safety glasses underneath.
  • Welding Protection - Specialized protection against intense light and radiation from welding operations. Filter lenses based on process type.

Common Eye Hazards

  • Flying Particles - Metal shavings, wood chips, dust, and debris from cutting, grinding, or drilling
  • Chemical Splashes - Acids, bases, solvents, and other hazardous liquids
  • Radiation - UV light from welding, intense visible light, laser beams
  • Impact - Tools, materials, or equipment striking the eye area
  • Dust and Debris - Fine particles that can scratch or irritate eyes

Proper Use Guidelines

  • Selection Criteria - Base eye protection choice on hazard assessment, comfort requirements, and compatibility with other PPE.
  • Fit and Adjustment - Adjust temples, nose pieces, and straps for secure, comfortable fit that doesn’t slip during work activities.
  • Maintenance Schedule - Clean lenses daily, inspect for damage weekly, and replace when scratched, cracked, or damaged.
  • Storage Practices - Store eye protection in protective cases when not in use to prevent damage and contamination.

Special Considerations

  • Prescription Eyewear - Workers requiring vision correction can use prescription safety glasses, safety glasses over regular glasses, or contact lenses with safety eyewear
  • Environmental Considerations - Choose anti-fog coatings for humid conditions, tinted lenses for bright light, or wraparound styles for dusty environments
  • Emergency Procedures - Know location of eyewash stations and emergency procedures for eye injuries. Flush immediately for chemical contact
  • Training Requirements - Understand proper use, limitations, and care of eye protection equipment assigned for your work area
  • Compliance Monitoring - Ensure consistent use of eye protection in all required areas and encourage coworkers to maintain safe practices

Eye Protection Standards

  • ANSI Z87.1 - American National Standard for eye and face protection
  • Impact Resistance - Must withstand high-velocity impact testing
  • Side Protection - Required for most industrial applications
  • Marking Requirements - Proper markings indicate compliance with safety standards

Emergency Response

  • Chemical Contact - Flush eyes immediately with clean water for 15-20 minutes
  • Foreign Objects - Don’t rub eyes; seek medical attention immediately
  • Impact Injuries - Apply cold compress and get medical evaluation
  • Eyewash Stations - Know locations and proper operation procedures

Discussion Questions

  1. What eye hazards are most common in our specific work activities?
  2. What problems do you experience with current eye protection equipment?
  3. What factors make it challenging to wear eye protection consistently?
  4. How can we improve eye protection selection, fit, or availability in our workplace?

Action Items

  • Assess eye hazards in your specific work area
  • Ensure you have appropriate eye protection for all tasks
  • Practice proper fitting and adjustment techniques
  • Learn location and operation of emergency eyewash stations

Takeaway: Your vision is irreplaceable and essential for both work and life activities. Make wearing appropriate eye protection a non-negotiable habit in all hazardous situations. The few seconds it takes to put on safety glasses can prevent a lifetime of vision problems or blindness. Protect your sight - you only get one set of eyes.

Tags:
eye protection safety glasses vision safety PPE injury prevention
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