Safety Tips - Eye Protection
Eye Protection
Wearing the right type of eye protection equipment is the key to preventing most on-the-job eye injuries.
Worksite Tips:
- If your workplace has airborne dust or grit and a risk of flying particles or splashing chemicals, you need eye protection.
- Regular glasses do not provide adequate protection, and contact lenses are never a substitute for safety gear.
- Many types of eye protection exist, including designs that can be worn over prescription glasses.
Choosing Eyewear:
- Select the protective eyewear best suited to the job.
- Glasses with impact-resistant lenses and side shields provide adequate protection for most types of work.
- Flexible-fitting or cushion-fitting goggles fit easily over prescription glasses and provide front and side protection.
- Special purpose eyewear, such as chemical or chipping goggles, provide maximum protection from fumes and flying debris.
- Full face shields may be worn in addition to protective eyewear. Face shields do not protect from impact hazards.
- All lenses, frames and transparent shields should meet American National Standards Institute Z 87.1 guidelines. Check with your supervisor if in doubt.
Emergency Procedures:
Know the locations of eyewash stations, face-washing units and first-aid equipment. Complete required training and know how to use emergency equipment. Report accidents to your supervisor and get medical help immediately.
Potential Eye Injuries Include:
- Dust, dirt, metal or wood chips entering the eye from activities such as chipping, grinding, sawing, hammering, the use of power tools or strong wind.
- Chemical splashes from corrosive substances, hot liquids and solvents.
- Objects swinging into the eye, such as tree limbs, chains, tools or ropes.
- Radiant energy from welding, harmful rays from the use of lasers or other radiant light, as well as heat, glare, sparks, splash and flying particles.
Visit copperpoint.com to view “Eye Safety” a free online workplace safety video.
Source: Occupational Safety & Health Administration
