Thousands of workers suffer eye injuries each year. To promote safety during Workplace Eye Wellness Month and year-round, follow tips that protect your eyes.
Identify Potential Eye Hazards
Every workplace features hazards such as chemicals, dust or flying metal that can affect eye safety. Identify the specific hazards in your workplace and create a plan to address them adequately.
Review the Eye Safety Checklist
A constant reminder of eye safety protocols can help you and your co-workers take precautions every day. Depending on your job, your department’s eye safety checklist could include:
- Identify potential hazards before and during your shift.
- Select and wear the appropriate eye protection.
- Regularly shake or brush debris from your hard hat, goggles and hair.
- Stay alert.
Include other checkpoints as needed to promote eye safety.
Take Safety Courses
Many workplaces review safety protocols once or twice a year. Attend these trainings and participate in discussions. The information your company’s safety officer shares could prevent serious damage and save your eyesight; consider related employer programs such as Wellness Services Insurance for Employers and Vendors for broader wellness planning.
Wear the Proper Personal Protective Eyewear
Safety glasses with side shields, protective goggles and full or partial face shields can reduce your risk of eye damage. Every day, inspect your personal protective eyewear to ensure it’s in good condition, fits properly and will remain firmly in place.
Prevent Eye Strain and Screen Fatigue
If your job requirements include looking at a screen, take specific precautions to avoid eye strain and fatigue.
- Reduce glare.
- Increase the font.
- Sit at least 20 inches away from the screen.
- Look at an object 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds every 20 minutes.
- Blink often.
- Stay hydrated to prevent dry eye.
- Wear computer eyeglasses.
Know the Emergency Plan
Every workplace should have a first aid kit, eyewash station or another emergency plan for workers to follow if they get an object in their eye. Know the plan and be prepared to implement it before you need it.
Seek Immediate Help After an Injury
If you experience any type of eye injury, get help right away. Even a small piece of dust can irritate your eye and cause a cut or tear, so seek assistance if you notice vision changes, eye pain or loss of sight at work.
Visit your Eye Doctor Regularly
Regular check-ups can promote eye health. At these annual visits, your eye doctor will assess any changes to your eye health or vision, identify any damage and prescribe the right prescription eyewear or protective eyewear; you can also review coverage options such as Vision Care Insurance.
While you can file a Workers’ Compensation claim after a work-related eye injury, follow these tips to protect your eyes. Precautions could save your vision as you maintain safety and commemorate Workplace Eye Wellness Month.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of eye protection should I wear?
Wear safety glasses with side shields, goggles, or face shields appropriate to the hazard, such as chemical splashes or flying debris.
How often should I have an eye exam?
Most people should see an eye doctor annually or as recommended based on age, health, and job exposure to hazards.
What should I do immediately if I get something in my eye at work?
Follow your workplace emergency plan: use an eyewash station if appropriate and seek medical help for persistent pain or vision changes.
Can workplace training help prevent eye injuries?
Yes. Regular safety training reinforces proper PPE use, hazard recognition, and emergency procedures to reduce the risk of eye injuries.