It is estimated that more than 2,000 workers in the U.S. injure their eyes so severely on the job that they require medical treatment.
Unfortunately, eye injuries are not only somewhat common, but they can also be serious and lead to lifelong issues. Learn more about work-caused eye injuries here.
Workplace eye injuries
There are two main causes of work-caused eye injuries. One is because workers fail to wear eye protection, and the other is if they wear the wrong type of protection for their work.
When this happens, their eyes are at risk of being burned, penetrated, struck or scraped. Employers and managers must take an active role in ensuring workers wear the proper eye protection. Some of the available options include full-face respirators, safety glasses, face shields and goggles.
It is also necessary to ensure the eye protection fits the wearer or that it is adjustable to provide the necessary coverage and protection. It needs to be comfortable while ensuring clear peripheral vision.
Preventing work-related eye injuries
Along with ensuring protective eyewear is available and used by workers, employers should also:
- Ensure controls like work screens and machine guards are used.
- Conduct a hazard assessment to determine the right protective eyewear for tasks.
- Ensure workers have access to the eyewear needed for their job.
Your rights after a work-related eye injury
If you have sustained a work-related eye injury, you have rights. Since workers’ compensation is a no-fault system, you should report the incident to your employer right away so they can ensure you are provided with the benefits you deserve. Knowing your legal options and what you can recover after an injury is important for most workers.