There are many chemicals, pieces of debris and other items that could lead to eye injuries on the job. As someone in any position, it is important for you to understand the risks around you and to take steps to protect your eyes.
If you work somewhere where you’re expected to wear eye protection, you should always wear it. However, it’s not just in those places that people end up with injuries. There are dozens of ways that eye injuries can happen.
What are the most common causes of eye injuries in the workplace?
One of the most common causes of eye injuries is exposure to chemicals. Chemical eye burns occur when highly acidic or highly alkaline substances come into contact with the eyes. Alkaline chemicals are the most dangerous and may be found in industrial cleaning supplies, for example.
Another cause of eye injuries on the job is if a foreign body gets into the eye. For example, things like saw dust, fibers or dirt could irritate the eyes. Sharper foreign bodies could damage the eye. Irritating particles do need to be removed as soon as possible.
Is computer use disorder a problem for workers?
In offices, it’s more likely to see computer use disorder. This is a disorder associated with normally temporary eye disorders that can alter your vision or make it painful. These conditions may be reduced by taking regular breaks and using blue light glasses as safety equipment.
Good safety precautions do make a difference for workers
Good safety precautions, such as blue light glasses, safety classes, regular breaks, eye wash stations and other appropriate steps taken to prevent eye injuries can help protect workers’ eyes and vision. Anything from simply wearing sunglasses to adjusting to wearing safety goggles in the workplace can help reduce the risk of eye injuries on the job.
Workers who do suffer eye injuries at work may be able to pursue compensation. They may ask for workers’ compensation or, in third-party cases, pursue a personal injury claim against another party responsible for their injuries. Those who have been injured deserve the opportunity to heal without negative financial consequences.
