Preventing Eye Injuries in the Workplace

Approximately 2,000 eye injuries occur daily in workplaces in the U.S. Interestingly, most of these injuries happen in workplaces where safety eyewear isn‚t required or wearing protective eyewear is left to the discretion of the individual. Many who are injured on the job weren't aware that they needed to have protective eyewear, or were wearing gear that did not provide adequate protection. Fortunately, eye injuries are one of the most easily-preventable job hazards. Here are some tips to help avoid eye injuries in the workplace.

Be sure the work environment is safe.

• Identify the major potential hazards on the work site and scan areas for objects that are unstable. Secure articles that appear unsafely positioned to minimize hazards from falling objects. 
• Check that tools work properly and that safety features are in place. 
• Keep non-authorized personnel out of high-risk work areas.

Wear the proper eye and face protection.

• Make sure you have the correct eye protection for the work site.
• Inspect eyewear to be sure it is in good condition.
• Check eyewear for secure fit.

Some common sense basics.

• Don‚t rub eyes with dirty hands or clothing. 
• Always remove dust and debris from hair, hardhards or head before removing protective eyewear.
• Clean and maintain eyewear.

If an accident does occur, use these first aid tips:

Small Particles in the Eye.

• Do not rub the affected area but flush the eye with plenty of water.
• If the speck does not wash out, or if pain or redness continues, consult a physician.

Foreign Objects, Cuts, or Punctures

• Unlike the procedure for specks of dust or other small particles, do not attempt to wash out the affected eye or otherwise try to remove a foreign object stuck in the eye.
• Seek immediate medical attention.

Chemical Burns

• Immediately open the eye as wide as possible and flush with water. Continue flushing for at least 15 minutes. If possible, keep flushing the eye on your way to seeking medical care.
• If a contact lens is in the eye, flush water over the lens to help dislodge it and clear the eye.
• Seek immediate medical attention.

Blows to the Eye

• Apply a cold compress but do not use pressure. A plastic bag with crushed ice can also be used by securing it to the forehead and allowing it to gently rest on the affected eye. 
• Seek immediate medical attention there is blood or discoloration in the eye or if there is any loss of vision and/or pain does not subside in a reasonable amount of time.