Eye wellness in the workplace often goes unnoticed, causing almost 2,000 eye injuries each day.
OSHA estimates that eye injuries can cost up to $300 million a year in lost productivity, treatment and compensation. Eye injuries are commonly at jobs involving dangerous chemicals or materials that can harm or destroy vision. These injuries can be serious and result from pieces of metal, wood, glass and other materials lodging in the eye. However, employees who work in an office setting are not free from the possibility of injury. Eye strain or fatigue can also occur due to excessive screen time.
The tips below can help you and your employees avoid common eye problems in the workplace.
Regular Eye Exams
Eye exams aren’t just for when you’re having trouble seeing. Eye exams can detect health problems like diabetes and identify if there are any changes in your vision.
PPE (Personal Protective Equipment)
It’s a fact, 90 percent of eye injuries can be avoided. All you have to do to is wear your PPE. *Let your eye care professional know if you need prescription safety glasses or goggles.
20-20-20 Rule
If you work on a computer daily, the AOA recommends following the 20-20-20 rule. Every 20 minutes, look 20 feet away, for 20 seconds. The AOA also recommends employees to position their computer screen 20-28 inches from their eyes. These are two great ways to reduce the risk of digital eye strain.
Importance of Knowing First Aid
In the case of an eye emergency, it is important for employees to know first aid. Please keep in mind if first aid procedures do not work, see a doctor immediately.
Eye wellness in the workplace should never be overlooked. Use these tips to keep your eyes ready for any task. OHC believes prevention is better than the cure and when prevention doesn’t work, let us be the one you call.
