Workplace Safety

March is almost done! It's Eyewellness Safety Month!

Prevent Blindness , one of the nation’s oldest volunteer eye health and safety groups, has declared March as Workplace Eye Wellness Month. The main goal is to raise awareness about eye health and safety in the workplace, which is becoming an increasingly more important observance. According to a 2018 Nielsen study , American adults spend more than 11 hours per day staring at screens while interacting with media. That’s an increase of nearly an hour and half over the past 4 years. Most digital devices have light-emitting diodes (LED) that radiate blue wave-length light. Prolonged exposure can lead to digital eye strain, dry and irritated eyes, blurred vision, eye fatigue, neck and even back pain and headaches. Research has also linked blue light exposure to the slow degeneration of the retina.

In addition to increased screen time, many employees also work outside of an office setting. Thus, eye safety is another important topic. Research shows that nearly 2,000 Americans suffer an eye injury, which has led to an estimated $300 million in lost productivity, medical expenses and workman’s compensation.

Common causes include flying debris such as metal and particles while using a saw; liquid splashing; and rubbing the eyes with contaminated hands, sleeves or something else.

Eye goggle protection would cut down on these injuries considerably. The safety specs must fit well because, despite wearing these glasses, a poor fit will allow particles and liquids to enter the eye area and cause damage.

Many liquids that are caustic can cause instant damage, starting with the cornea, and require immediate medical attention. Make sure the company you work for has safety rules posted for all employees, and eye wash stations available to use for everyone in case of emergency eye injuries.

When it comes to all eye injuries, prevention is always a must.

This month is a great time to start focusing on your our eye health. Prevent Blindness has great resources and educational materials relating to eye health and safety, as well as information on age-related eye disease.

Have questions? Reach out to us. We are always happy to talk to you.