Workplace Eye Wellness Month

March is Workplace Eye Wellness Month and there’s no better time than now for a little review and fast facts.

Thousands of eye injuries occur in the workplace every year. However, did you know that 90% of all workplace eye injuries can be avoided by using proper safety eyewear?

According to OSHA’s eye and face protection standard (1910.133) this is what should be enforced on the job front, “the employer shall ensure that each affected employee uses appropriate eye or face protection when exposed to eye or face hazards from flying particles, molten metal, liquid chemicals, acids or caustic liquids, chemical gases or vapors, or potentially injurious light radiation.”

Of course the workplace is only a portion of our lives and accidents at home can just as easily happen. In fact, four out of ten accidents that cause blindness happen at home. So, what is it exactly that we’re doing at home that is so dangerous? We’re cleaning, cooking, taking care of the yard, fixing the car, playing sports…you know, living. Don’t discount school and the youngsters either. Think about the playground, gym class, science class/labs, sports, the list goes on.

The moral of the story is you need to protect your eyes by properly wearing safety glasses, goggles, face shields, etc. when appropriate. Make sure your protective eyewear is not too tight or too loose. Wash it regularly with mild soap and water, or eyeglass cleaner, and polish with a soft cloth or tissue. Avoid damage to lenses by storing your protective eyewear carefully.

You’ve only got one set of eyes. Don’t lose them because the ones in the back of your head don’t count.

Sources: NSC.org, SeeClearly.com