March is Workplace Eye Wellness Month, and it is the perfect time to focus on protecting one of your most valuable assets—your sight. Whether you're working outdoors, in a lab or factory or any other high-risk environment, wearing certified and approved eye protection can help prevent injuries and keep your vision safe.
Why eye protection matters
Did you know that eye injuries are one of the leading causes of preventable workplace accidents? Every day, thousands of people suffer from eye injuries that could have been avoided with the right protective gear. Whether it's flying debris, harmful chemicals or even intense light exposure, your eyes are vulnerable to a wide range of hazards.
How to protect your eyes
- Wear certified eye protection: Always choose ANSI Z87.1-certified eyewear. This ensures your protective gear has been tested and meets safety standards to withstand workplace hazards. The unexpected can always happen, even if the task seems simple or low-risk. Take a moment to put on your safety glasses and reduce the risk of injury.
- Choose the right gear for the job: Depending on your work environment, you may need additional protection such as goggles, face shields or safety glasses with side protection. Make sure the eye protection fits securely and comfortably.
- Inspect your gear regularly: Check for cracks, scratches or any other damage that could compromise the effectiveness of your eye protection. Replace any damaged or worn-out gear immediately.
- Follow safety procedures: Use machine guards, screens and proper ventilation to ensure a safe environment beyond your eye protection.
- Encourage your team: Safety is a team effort. If you see a colleague without eye protection, remind them how easy it is to prevent injuries with the right gear. Post reminders to wear eye protection around your workplace.
What to do if you sustain an eye injury
If you get chemicals or dust in your eyes:
- Find the nearest eyewash station and rinse thoroughly
- If an eyewash station isn’t nearby, any source of clean water will do in a pinch
- Then, seek immediate medical care
If you suffer a cut, scratch or other injury on the eye:
- Do not rub or place pressure on the eye—it is especially important not to try and remove any foreign bodies yourself
- Cover the eye with a protective shield
- Then, seek immediate medical care
Remember, your eyesight is irreplaceable. Let’s make eye safety a priority. Wear your certified and approved eye protection and encourage your coworkers to do the same.
