Workplace eye injuries affect thousands of workers every year, from industrial job sites to office settings. While some injuries result in temporary discomfort, others can cause lasting damage or even blindness. The good news? Most workplace eye injuries are preventable with the right precautions.
Common Causes of Workplace Eye Injuries
- Flying Debris – Small particles like dust, metal shavings, and wood chips can become airborne during tasks like grinding, cutting, or drilling. Tiny fragments can cause corneal abrasions or become embedded in the eye, leading to serious complications if not treated promptly.
- Chemical Exposure – Splashes from cleaning agents, industrial chemicals, and lab substances can cause burns or even permanent damage. Some chemicals may also produce fumes that irritate the eyes, even without direct contact.
- Blunt Force Trauma – Accidents involving tools, machinery, or falling objects can result in direct eye injuries. A strong impact can lead to internal bleeding, fractures around the eye, or even retinal detachment.
- Bright Light & Radiation – Welders and those working around UV exposure are at risk for burns and photokeratitis, a painful condition similar to sunburn on the cornea.
- Prolonged Screen Time – Office workers may not encounter airborne debris or chemical hazards but extended digital screen use can still take a toll on eye health. Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS) results from prolonged focus on screens, leading to dry eyes, strain, and headaches. Factors like glare from overhead lighting, improper screen brightness, and reduced blinking can worsen symptoms
What To Do If an Eye Injury Occurs
If an eye injury occurs at work, seek medical attention immediately. Small particles, chemical splashes, or blunt trauma can lead to serious complications if not properly treated. Eye injuries can cause internal damage that isn’t immediately visible, so it’s important to avoid touching or rubbing the eye and seek emergency care. Delaying treatment increases the risk of infection, scarring, or vision loss—when in doubt, always have a medical professional assess the injury.
Preventing Workplace Eye Injuries
Most workplace eye injuries are avoidable with proper precautions. Here’s how to keep your vision protected:
- Wear the Right Eye Protection – Safety glasses, goggles, and face shields should meet OSHA and American National Standards Institute (ANSI) regulations and be chosen based on workplace hazards. Prescription and non-prescription safety glasses are available at Vision Center South.
- Practice Good Hygiene – Wash your hands thoroughly before touching your eyes, especially when working with chemicals or irritants
- Follow Safety Protocols – Proper handling of tools, machinery, and chemicals is critical. Employers should provide regular safety training to reinforce best practices.
- Rest Your Eyes – To prevent digital strain, follow the 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break to look at something 20 feet away. Consider talking to your optometrist about computer glasses, which are specifically designed for focusing on screens.
Whether you need urgent care or ongoing treatment for an eye condition, our specialists are here to help! With locations in Dothan, AL, Andalusia, AL, Montgomery, AL, Panama City, FL, Destin, FL, and Tallahassee, FL, our team is dedicated to protecting and preserving your vision. Schedule your appointment at Eye Center South today – Call us at (800) 467-1393 or request an appointment online.
