Eye injuries are among the most common workplace incidents across every industry. Construction workers, maintenance crews, manufacturing employees, laboratory technicians, landscapers, and even office workers can face hazards that threaten their vision. Because eye injuries can occur in seconds and lead to permanent damage, workers must understand the risks and wear the correct protective eye protection at all times.
Common workplace hazards that can injure the eyes include:
- Flying dust, dirt, or sand
- Metal, wood, or glass slivers
- Concrete or rock fragments
- Chemical splashes or vapors
- Sparks from welding, cutting, or grinding
- UV light, infrared radiation, and lasers
Eye protection needs to be discussed frequently during training and safety meetings to reinforce safe habits and hazard awareness.
OSHA Construction Standard 1926.28(a) states that the employer is responsible for requiring the wearing of appropriate personal protective equipment in all operations where there is an exposure to hazardous conditions or where this part indicates the need for using such equipment to reduce the hazards to the employees.
Impact injuries are those that result from flying or falling objects, or sparks striking the eye.
Impact hazards can be created by grinding or cutting tools such as handheld grinders, saws, and similar tools.
Workers must always use safety glasses or goggles designed for the task.
Impact Hazards and Required Eye Protection
Impact injuries occur when the eye is struck by flying or falling objects, debris, or sparks. These hazards are especially common during:
- Grinding
- Cutting
- Sawing
- Chipping concrete
- Using power tools
- Hammering or breaking materials
Workers must wear safety glasses or impact-rated goggles designed for their specific task. Side shields should be used to protect against particles entering from the sides.
OSHA General Industry Standard 1910.133(a)(1) requires employers to ensure employees use appropriate eye or face protection when exposed to flying particles, molten metal, liquid chemicals, vapors, or potentially harmful light radiation.
Heat Hazards and High-Temperature Exposure
Heat-related eye injuries can occur when workers are exposed to:
- High temperatures
- Splashes of molten metal
- Hot sparks
- Ovens, kilns, or furnaces
- Welding activities
Eye and face protection for heat hazards includes:
- Safety spectacles with special-purpose lenses
- Side shields
- Heat-resistant goggles
- Face shields (used with safety glasses, not alone)
Employers are responsible for evaluating whether these hazards exist and selecting appropriate PPE.
OSHA General Industry Standard 1910.132(d)(1) requires employers to assess the workplace to determine if hazards are present that necessitate the use of PPE.
Chemical Hazards and Proper Eye Protection
Chemical injuries often occur when workers fail to use required PPE or when their eye protection does not provide full coverage. Chemicals can enter the eye from:
- Splashes
- Vapors
- Mists
- Drips
- Residue on hands or gloves
- Underside gaps in poorly-fitted eyewear
Workers must use chemical splash goggles, face shields, or a combination of both when handling hazardous substances. Eyewash stations must be present and unobstructed in areas where chemical exposure is possible.
OSHA Construction Standard 1926.28(a)(1) states that employees must be provided with eye and face protection when machines or operations present potential injury from physical, chemical, or radiation agents.
ANSI Requirements for Eye Protection
All safety glasses must meet ANSI Z87.1 standards. This rating ensures that the eyewear has been tested for impact resistance, coverage, and durability.
Important reminders:
- Workers who wear prescription glasses must use prescription safety glasses that meet ANSI Z87.1, or they must wear approved safety glasses over their prescription lenses.
- Do not assume regular eyeglasses offer any protection because typically, they do not.
- Safety glasses should always be kept clean, scratch-free, and in good condition.
Protecting Vision Starts With Wearing the Right PPE
Eye injuries are preventable when workers follow proper safety procedures, wear the correct PPE, and remain aware of the hazards around them. Incorporating eye protection reminders into toolbox talks, pre-shift meetings, and training ensures everyone understands the importance of safeguarding their vision.
Properly maintained PPE, OSHA compliance, and strong hazard awareness can dramatically reduce the risk of eye injuries and help keep workers safe on every job site.
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