Why Eye Protection is Essential in the Workplace

Your eyes are among the most sensitive parts of your body. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 2,000 workers experience work-related eye injuries.  All jobs that involve interacting with airborne particles carry the risk of an eye injury. Examples of such jobs include construction work, carpentry, and welding, to name a few.

Workers can protect their eyes by wearing eye protection PPE like general safety glasses, impact goggles, and chemical splash goggles. Here are a few of the many situations when wearing eye protection is essential.

When Working With Hazardous Substances

Corrosive chemicals like acids, alkaline liquids, and certain gasses can severely injure your eyes. Wear eye protection when handling chemicals that can splash into your eyes. You should also wear appropriate eye protection when working with gasses and fumes that can blow into your eye. In case of exposure, report to your manager and seek immediate medical attention.

When In Dusty Environments

Dust from cement or silica can irritate the eyes leading to tearing, inflammation, and pain. Strap on your safety goggles when working in such environments to prevent the dust from getting into your eyes. These goggles fit snugly on your eye and prevent these particles from getting through to your eyes.

When Work Involves Flying Particles or Objects

Certain work activities involve exposing yourself to flying particles and debris. Examples include sawing, drilling, and even welding. These flying particles can accidentally hit your eye causing injury. Wear your eye protection before engaging in any work that involves a lot of flying particles.

When Work Involves Radiation and Intense Light

Exposing your eyes to high levels of radiation could lead to a variety of eye complications, including glaucoma and cataracts among others. Too much exposure to light, on the other hand, could cause accelerated eye degeneration. 

Workers who deal with radiation and intense light should wear special safety goggles with filters. These goggles filter high-frequency light and certain types of radiation to protect the eye from damage. 

When Working With Molten Metal and Hot Liquids

Metal casting and welding entails dealing with molten metal. It’s easy for the molten material to splash into your eyes while pouring. The same goes for industries that handle large volumes of hot liquids.

Molten metal and hot liquids splashing into your eyes is not only excruciatingly painful but could also lead to severe injuries, including blindness. Goggles and face shields can help  protect the eyes from these hot liquids.

Speak With a Missouri Work Injury Lawyer

Eye protection is crucial for shielding your eyes from various hazards in the workplace. By adhering to the specific demands of eye protection in different situations, you can significantly reduce the risk of harm to your eyes. Nevertheless, in the event of a work-related injury, you have the option to file a workers compensation claim.

Speak with a Missouri workers compensation attorney 24/7 at the Law Office of James M. Hoffmann at (314) 361-4300.