Eye injuries are some of the most common injuries in the work place, with more than 2,000 work-related eye injuries reported each day.  Of these, more eye injuries occur in the construction industry than in any other field. All eye injuries are entirely preventable with the use of protective gear, and by exercising proper precautions.

Causes of Eye Injury

• Tiny bits of particles like wood splinters and shavings, metal slivers, or cement dust can enter the eyes, either through the movement of the wind, or through common workplace related activities like hammering, rolling, sweeping, or the operation of machinery.
• Blunt force trauma to the eye resulting from a fall, or from walking into a hard surface like a wall. 
• Trauma can be inflicted when the eye is struck by a falling or flying object.  This can cause a fracture of the eye socket that requires plastic surgery to remove smashed bone fragments, relieve pressure on the eye muscles and restore the appearance of the eye region. 
• Workers, who handle chemicals, solvents, hot liquids, etc., can suffer burns when they splash into the eyes during handling. 
• Work with lasers can burn the eyes if proper precautions aren't taken. 
• Ultraviolet rays can also burn the retina and cornea of the eye, causing a serious eye injury. 

Prevention of Eye Injury

Eye injuries can be reduced dramatically with the use of protective equipment.  Goggles may be used to protect the eyes, and if the worker wears prescription glasses, then the goggles must be designed to fit over the prescription eyewear, or prescription eye goggles must be provided to the worker.  When necessary, these must be supplemented with face shields that help prevent airborne particles from entering the eyes.  Face shields are necessary if there is a danger of injury from splashing chemicals, or during activities like sandblasting and grinding.  Workers must be trained in the proper use of protective gear, and must be taught to store it properly so it remains in good condition.  Eye safety gear must be well fitting and comfortable to use, or there is a risk that workers will remove it altogether.  Signs must be posted outside hazardous areas that pose a high risk of injury to workers' eyes, like welding sites or construction areas.  Where there is risk of chemical splashes in the eye, there must be a designated eye wash station to rinse chemicals from the affected eye to prevent injury.  Emergency response mechanisms for any kind of eye injury must be in place, and must be practiced to assure efficient execution in the event an eye injury occurs.