Eyes are vulnerable to injuries at work. Hazards like dust, chemicals, and projectiles can damage eyesight. Eye injuries cause numerous work-related disabilities each year. Many result in permanent vision loss. Knowing the common types of occupational eye injuries helps workers take safety precautions.
 

Most Common Workplace Eye Injuries

Specific eye injuries occur more frequently in work settings. Being aware of these risks is the first step toward prevention.
 

Corneal Abrasions                      

The transparent cornea at the front of the eye is easily scratched. Even tiny particles like dust can scrape the cornea. More significant trauma from metal shavings, tree branches, or fingernails can also rub the cornea. Symptoms of corneal abrasions include eye pain, tearing, light sensitivity, and blurred vision.
 

Chemical Burns

Chemical burns in the eye occur when harmful substances splash into it. Alkali chemicals, found in many products, cause more severe burns. These burns can damage the eye’s surface. In extreme cases, they can lead to vision loss. Emergency medical attention is crucial to prevent permanent damage. Always use eye protection when handling these substances.
 

Foreign Bodies in the Eye

Foreign bodies like dirt, metal, wood, and other debris often get lodged in the eye while at work. These can scratch the eye or trigger infections. Symptoms include a feeling of something in the eye, tearing, redness, and pain.
 

Blunt Force Eye Trauma

Blunt-force collisions can lead to the following:

·       Black eyes

·       Eye socket damage

·       Internal eye bleeding

Extreme pressure from compressed air or explosions can even rupture the eyeball. These severe injuries need immediate emergency care to prevent vision loss.
 

UV Light Damage

UV light can harm the eyes. It can cause a “burn” on the eye surface. Over time, this damage can lead to eye conditions. One is macular degeneration, where the central part of your vision can become blurred or lost. Another is cataracts, which make your vision cloudy. Both conditions can make it hard to see well.
 

Preventing Workplace Eye Injuries

Employers and workers should take proactive measures to avoid occupational eye trauma:
 

Wear Protective Eyewear

Different types of protective eyewear safeguard against workplace eye hazards. Safety glasses with shatterproof lenses shield against flying debris, dust, and glare. Goggles form a seal around the eyes to protect them from chemical splashes. Welder’s masks have special filters for intense ultraviolet light. Prescription safety glasses, like those from Bright Eyes Vision, protect those needing vision correction.
 

Install Protective Barriers

Installing physical barriers provides an added layer of protection. Screens around hazardous equipment stop projectiles from hitting the eyes. Splash guards block chemical sprays.
 

Provide Eye Wash Stations

Emergency eye wash stations are crucial in workplaces. They allow for quick rinsing of the eyes if particles or chemicals get into them. Quick rinsing helps to reduce damage to the eyes. It is a simple yet effective way to protect eye health at work.
 

Train Workers on Safety

Training workers on proper machine use and eye hazard awareness helps prevent injuries. Learning emergency eye care procedures prepares them to respond effectively.
 

Allow Periodic Breaks

Taking breaks to rest the eyes is essential. It helps prevent eye strain or fatigue, which can increase accident risks. So, remember to give your eyes a break. It is a simple way to make a big difference in eye health and safety.
 

Enforce Eye Protection Rules

To promote a culture of safety, workplaces should mandate wearing appropriate eye protection for all applicable hazards.
 

Get Annual Eye Exams

Comprehensive exams detect emerging vision issues early. Updating prescription eye protection lenses regularly ensures a proper fit. With suitable precautions, most occupational eye injuries are preventable. Eyesight protection must be a priority for every workplace.