March is workplace eye safety and health month! Various situations can cause eye injury or damage while at work. While some might be hard to prevent, most of them only need you to take precautionary measures.
Every industry has its health and safety risks. It is crucial to know and avoid them no matter your working condition. Here are the primary causes of job eye injuries.
Too Much Exposure to Computer Screens
Currently, so many people use computers at their work throughout the day. The constant exposure to screens can cause serious eye problems such as eye dryness and eye pain. The severity of the vision problem depends on how much time you spend staring at a screen.
Chemical Burns
If you work at a chemical workplace, then you are at risk of getting chemical burns. Chemicals such as strong acids, ammonia, and disinfectants can irritate or burn your eyes, causing blindness.
Particles
Small particles such as nails and wood chips can penetrate your delicate tissue, leading to eye problems.
Infectious Diseases
Infectious diseases get transmitted through touch or direct exposure. Doctors, nurses, or any other persons in the medical field are at risk of getting eye infections if exposed to people with contagious diseases.
How to Protect Your Eyes While at Work
Here are various tips to help you protect your eyes while at work.
Prevent Digital Eyestrain
If your work involves using a computer, you may develop eye problems at one point in your career. To prevent digital eye strain, you should blink often, take regular breaks, and use anti-glare screens on your computer. Also, make sure to visit your optometrist at least once a year.
Use Protective Eye Glasses
If you work in dusty conditions, you should wear safety eyeglasses. If you are exposed to chemicals, it is good that you wear goggles to protect your eyes from getting burnt. If you work with fiber optics or welding, you should wear helmets or face shields for protection.
Your vision is crucial, so make sure that your employer provides you with protective eyewear. Also, be sure to wear them whenever you are working.
Beware of Potential Eye Hazards
As mentioned above, there are various ways that you can get eye injuries. It is crucial that you be mindful of any potential eye hazards, such as chemicals, dust, or any other object that may enter your eyes. It would be best if you inspected your workspace before starting any task.
Visit Your Doctor Regularly
To ensure your eye health, it is crucial that you visit your doctor regularly. That way, any irregularities can get detected and treated before any serious problems begin. Your doctor can recommend the necessary treatment.
Feel free to visit Advanced Eye Care Center in Urbandale, Iowa, for any vision conditions or problems. You can also contact us at 515-303-4488 to schedule an appointment. Our doctors are well trained and experienced to give you the best patient experience.
Learn more about protecting your eyes in the workplace, contact Advanced Eye Care Center in Urbandale, IA at 515-303-4488 to schedule an appointment.