There are plenty of ways that you could hurt your eyes at work. You could have eye strain from working at a computer for long hours, for example, or you might have chemical burns from an accident in a lab.
Your eyes create one of your most important senses, so threatening your sight is a major problem that has to be addressed. Today, around $300 million in medical bills, time off and compensation add up as a result of eye injuries in the workplace.
Who is at the greatest risk of eye injuries in the workplace?
Eye injuries are suffered most often by men. In fact, men between the ages of 25 and 44 make up 80% of all eye injury victims in the workplace. Those who work in construction, mining or manufacturing are at the greatest risk of suffering an injury, with 40% of work-related eye injuries occurring in these fields.
How can you prevent eye injuries in the workplace?
To prevent eye injuries in the workplace, it’s important to have the right safety gear. If there is a potential for debris to impact your eyes, safety glasses are necessary. For cases of eye strain, taking breaks more often and resting your eyes can be of help.
Protecting your sight is one of the most important things you can do for yourself. If you suffer an eye injury on the job, reach out. Our website has more on how you can seek workers’ compensation and the benefits that you need to seek medical care and to take time off to heal.