Workplace eye injuries are pretty common. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are more than 20,000 injuries that occur at workplaces each year. (Source: https://healthcare.utah.edu/healthfeed/postings/2018/03/eye-work.php) Eye injuries can range anywhere from a common eye strain to trauma. And there’s a good chance these small eye problems can lead to vision loss, permanent eye damage, and blindness.
Did you know around 40 percent of all serious eye injuries take place at manufacturing, construction, and mining where workers are exposed to molten metal, flying particles, caustic liquids, and chemical gases that are part of an entire day’s work?
Recognizing and treating these eye injuries by a professional can reverse the damage your eyes have sustained. But do not try treating it yourself because you might end up causing even more damage.
Importance of Regular Eye Exam
A regular eye exam does not just serve the purpose of correcting troubled vision. But it also corrects underlying eye problems that stem from overall health problems like diabetes. Lack of eye safety at the workplace also needs eyes to be checked on a regular basis. If you notice any of these signs while you are working, make sure you seek medical help right away:
- Pain or trouble seeing
- Cut or torn eyelid
- Either eye sticks out
- The eye loses its original shape or size
- Blood appears in the clear part of the eye
- You have something in or under the eyelid that is difficult to remove
Wear Eye Protection Gear
Wearing the right kind of eye protection gear harnesses your eye health and lowers the risks of workplace eye injuries. But there are still a good number of people who sustain eye injuries simply because their eye protection was not up to the mark. Common eyewear like prescription lenses and sunglasses are not designed to protect you from injuries at the workplace. And which is why it is all the more important you use a full-face shield or goggles while carrying out work.
Practice the 20-20-20 Rule
Besides getting the right protective eyewear, another good tip is to practice the 20-20-20 rule. Add to it, eye strains which are a common problem many workers and office-goers face. You have definitely heard of this rule from your eye doctor so why not make it a practice now. But for those of you who haven’t heard it before, here’s what you need to know.
Stare at an object for 20 seconds that is at least 20 feet far, every 20 minutes. If you want to take it to the next level, challenge yourself not to only look away, and instead get up and get moving around.
Make a phone call if you have to, grab a cup of coffee, or have a quick chat with a colleague! The whole point is to get moving because it’s not only going to reduce your eye strain, but also keep you active and increase alertness. An eye strain does not always stem with age, but it certainly works to lighten your mood and concentrate better.
Importance of Knowing First Aid
Emergency situations may arise and employees need to know first aid. But you need to remember that if a first aid procedure doesn’t suffice, you should see a doctor immediately. Eye safety should never be overlooked in the workplace. So use these tips to keep your eyes prepared for any tasks that you need to undertake.
Since workplace eye injuries are very common, take a proactive step towards eye safety measures. Get your colleagues involved so that everyone helps each other out. Use the same control measures at home as well.
Author Bio:
Aaron Barriga is the online marketing manager for Insight Vision Center. With a knack for understanding medical procedures, and an interest in eye and vision health, Aaron loves to share what he knows and what he learns. He blogs to inform readers about the latest eye care technology and other topics related to eye care, especially LASIK. Aaron loves collecting coasters from the different bars and restaurants he visits during his travels.
