Eye injuries are very common, especially in the workplace. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health reports that about 2,000 U.S. workers sustain job-related eye injuries every day. By working to protect your eyes, you can help to lessen the severity of these eye injuries or completely prevent them. Our team at Boston Vision works to make sure our patients are aware of potential eye dangers in their daily lives to protect them from injury and to ensure that when serious eye problems occur, they know when to seek immediate medical care.
Common Eye Dangers
Common workplace hazards that could cause potential injury to the eyes are:
- Chemicals (splashes and fumes)
- Radiation
- Projectiles (dust, metal, wood, other particles)
- Bloodborne Pathogens
- Computer Eye Strain
Many of these items could cause serious eye damage. Also, many people who work long hours in front of a computer could be slowly causing vision problems from eye strain. To help alleviate the digital eye strain and blurred vision follow the 20-20-20 rule. Take a 20-second break to look at something 20 feet away every 20 minutes.
Occupations with High Risk of Eye Injuries
- Construction
- Mining
- Carpentry
- Auto Repair
- Manufacturing
- Electrical Work
- Plumping
- Welding
- Maintenance
Protect Your Eyes
You should be aware of the dangers of your workplace and take precautions to prevent severe injuries and vision loss. It is important that you wear protective eyewear and keep your safe eyewear in good condition. Different types of protective wear are safety glasses, goggles, helmets, and face shields. If you sustain an eye injury, do not rub your eyes. If chemicals get in the eye, immediately flush the eye with water. For any injury to the eyes, you should seek immediate medical attention and go to the emergency room.
Schedule an Appointment
If you have an eye injury that is not an emergency, schedule an appointment with Boston Vision, email us at help@bostonvision.com or book online with us today to get started.
