According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control, each day, about 2,000 U.S workers sustain an injury which is job related and requires medical attention. In addition, of those who suffer from eye injuries on the job, around 60% were not wearing the proper protective eye wear. Rules are in place for all workers that should be followed however, it is your job to be sure that you do follow them.
Common eye injuries on the job result from chemicals and foreign objects as well as cuts or scrapes to the cornea. In food preparation, common eye injuries also include splashes from grease or oil and even steam burns. In the field of health care, janitorial and laboratory work, workers may also be at risk for infections diseases from exposure to the eye as well making it imperative for each of these workers and others to protect their eyes from injury.
Depending on your field, what eye protection you will be required to wear and would be the most helpful will vary however, there are some which will require more than others as they are considered high risk fields. These fields include:
- construction
- manufacturing
- mining
- carpentry
- auto repair
- electrical work
- plumbing
- welding
- maintenance
In these fields and others, you are advised and often required to wear eye protection from normal safety glasses to those with side shields and even face shields, goggles and/or helmets.
You can help protect your eyes by knowing and remembering these four things:
- Know what dangers exist at your job
- Eliminate the hazards
- Use the proper protection
- Keep your safety gear in good repair
Be sure you know your rights and your obligations when it comes to your protection. Your eyes are a valuable gift, do your part to protect them.
Alpine Eye Care is located in Northern Michigan in three locations including Gaylord, Grayling and Cheboygan. Specializing in eye care and eye surgery, we can help in a variety of ways. From senior eye care to eye exams or concerns, Alpine Eye Care is the leading eye care center in Northern Michigan. If you would like to set up an appointment for your eyes, contact us today at 1-877-SEE-2020 or schedule an appointment online.