Workplace Eye Wellness Month

Eye injuries are alarmingly frequent. Each year, more than 25,000 Americans visit the emergency room due to a workplace eye injury, according to the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO).
Yet that’s only part of the problem – in fact, nearly half of all eye injuries occurred in the home.

More than 40 percent of those were associated with home repairs, yard work, cleaning and cooking. And more than 78 percent of people were not wearing eyewear at the time of injury.

According to the AAO, if you see any of these signs in yourself or others, seek medical attention immediately:

* The person has obvious pain or trouble seeing.

* The person has a cut or torn eyelid.

* One eye does not move as well as the other.

* One eye sticks out compared to the other.

* The eye has an unusual pupil size or shape.

* There is blood in the clear part of the eye.

* The person has something in the eye or under the eyelid that can’t be easily removed.

This month is Workplace Eye Wellness Month. The AAO has a number of articles on eye injuries and proper protective eyewear. Above all, make sure your eyewear is OSHA-approved, and take time to clear an area of hazards before working there.

If you’re working in an area with flying objects, dust or particles, wear safety glasses with side protection; with chemicals, wear goggles; and those doing welding tasks or work involving lasers and fiber optics should wear specialized eyewear.