During the month of March, your company can commemorate Workplace Eye Wellness Month and Save Your Vision Month. Several tips can help you promote healthy eyes and these observances among employees.
Evaluate and Adjust your Workspace
Staring at a computer screen or performing repetitive tasks for hours strains eyesight. Remind employees to evaluate their workspace, identify any sources of strain, and make adjustments that protect their eye health.
- Turn down the screen brightness and reduce blue light.
- Reposition work materials to between 20 and 26 inches from the eyes.
- Adjust the chair and posture so the work surface is slightly below eye level.
- Look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds once every 20 minutes.
- Increase the screen font or use a magnifier to see small items.
- Blink regularly throughout the day or use lubricating eye drops to prevent dry eye.
Wear the Correct Eye Safety Equipment
Employees who work with hazardous materials or operate equipment need to wear the proper eye safety equipment. Glasses, goggles, and helmets, along with three basic steps, help protect eyesight.
- Wear eye safety gear at all times when hazards are present.
- Ensure the eye protection fits properly.
- Replace worn or damaged eye safety equipment immediately.
Schedule an eye safety equipment inspection and remind employees of the procedure for reporting eye accidents or injuries. You may also offer a refresher course on using the eye wash and first aid stations.
Encourage a Healthy Diet
The right foods can help maintain vision and protect the eyes from damage. Encourage employees to eat foods rich in zinc, vitamin C, vitamin E, and omega-3 fatty acids.
- Green leafy vegetables.
- Non-meat proteins, including eggs, beans, and nuts.
- Oily fish like tuna and salmon.
- Citrus fruit and juice.
To promote an eye-healthy diet, stock these foods in the break room or serve them during employee lunches. Also include recipes that feature these eye-friendly ingredients in your company newsletter.
Promote Regular Eye Checkups
An optometrist checks for vision changes and reviews overall eye health; eye exams can also indicate risks for diabetes, hypertension, and other chronic conditions. If possible, provide Vision Care Insurance so employees can visit an eye doctor at least once a year.
Remind employees this month to take advantage of their vision benefit and to schedule regular eye exams.
Consider offering Wellness Services Insurance for Employers and Vendors to support workplace eye-health initiatives and broader employee wellness programs. If you need help implementing these ideas, talk to an agent for additional tips that promote eye wellness throughout the year.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should employees have an eye exam?
Most adults should have an eye exam at least once every one to two years, or more often if they have symptoms or a chronic condition that affects the eyes.
What can employees do to reduce screen-related eye strain at work?
Use the 20-20-20 rule, adjust screen brightness and font size, maintain proper distance from the screen, and blink frequently or use lubricating drops.
What types of eyewear protect against workplace hazards?
Safety glasses, goggles, face shields, and helmets designed for the specific hazard provide the best protection; ensure the equipment fits and is ANSI-compliant when required.
Can diet really affect eye health?
Yes; nutrients like zinc, vitamins C and E, and omega-3 fatty acids support eye health and may reduce the risk of certain eye diseases.