Many jobs come with a risk to the employee’s eyes. It’s up to the employers to ensure that these individuals have the proper safety procedures and gear to protect their eyesight. Unfortunately, workers suffer eye injuries on a regular basis. Approximately 20,000 of these injuries occur in this country each year.
There is a range of injuries that are possible. Some of these come from trauma to the eye, while others are due to strain. While some of these have temporary impacts on someone’s eyesight, permanent damage is possible.
Eye protection isn’t negotiable
One of the most effective ways to prevent eye injuries is to wear eye protection. This includes things like screens that can stop flying particles to goggles that can stop liquids from coming in contact with the eyes.
Face shields are sometimes a viable option. Regardless of what types of eye protection are used, they must conform to the regulations that are set by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration.
Know the signs of a problem
Recognizing the signs of a problem is critical for all workers. If you have trouble seeing out of your eye, feel like there’s something in it, have a cut on the eyelid or have any other unusual symptoms in the eyes, you could have an eye injury. Unequal pupils and blood showing in the eye are also signs of a problem.
Workers who have any type of eye injury should seek medical care immediately. Benefits from workers’ compensation should help to cover the costs. You may have to appeal a decision if you’re not awarded the full benefits you’re due.