What Are the Most Common Eye Injuries in the Workplace?

Eye injuries are more common than many people realize, especially in work environments where hazards are present. According to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), thousands of workers suffer eye injuries each year, many of which could have been prevented with proper safety measures. Whether you work in construction, manufacturing, healthcare, or even an office setting, understanding common workplace eye injuries and how to prevent them is crucial for protecting your vision.

Foreign Objects in the Eye

Small particles like dust, wood chips, or metal fragments can easily become lodged in the eye, causing irritation, scratches on the cornea, or more serious damage. These injuries are especially common in construction, carpentry, and manufacturing.

Chemical Burns

Workers in laboratories, cleaning services, and manufacturing may be exposed to hazardous chemicals. Splashes or vapors can lead to painful burns, inflammation, or even permanent vision loss if not treated immediately.

Blunt Force Trauma

A sudden impact from tools, machinery parts, or falling objects can cause bruising, fractures around the eye, or retinal damage. Industries like construction, mining, and automotive repair often have a higher risk of these injuries.

Radiation-Related Eye Injuries

Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) or infrared (IR) radiation from welding arcs, lasers, or other high-intensity light sources can lead to conditions such as photokeratitis (similar to sunburn of the eye) or cataracts over time.

Eye Strain Injuries

Although less dramatic than physical injuries, prolonged screen time in office environments can cause digital eye strain, leading to headaches, blurred vision, and discomfort that can affect productivity and long-term eye health.

The Importance of Protective or Safety Eyewear

Wearing the right protective eyewear is the most effective way to prevent workplace eye injuries. Safety glasses, goggles, face shields, and specialized protective lenses are designed to shield your eyes from debris, chemicals, and harmful light. The type of protection you need will depend on your work environment:

• Impact-Resistant Safety Glasses for construction, manufacturing, and woodworking.

• Chemical Splash Goggles for laboratory or cleaning work.

• Welding Helmets or Goggles with appropriate filter lenses for welding tasks.

• Blue-Light Blocking Glasses for prolonged computer use to reduce eye strain.

Employers have a responsibility to provide adequate protective gear, and employees should make it a priority to wear it consistently. Even a brief lapse in eye protection can result in a serious injury.

Get the Right Eye Protection for Your Job

Workplace eye injuries can range from minor irritation to life-changing vision loss, but in most cases, they are preventable. Understanding common hazards and wearing the right protective eyewear can make all the difference in safeguarding your vision. In the event of an eye emergency, we are here to provide the prompt care you need to protect your sight.

Schedule your comprehensive eye exam at Eyewellniss to ensure your vision is healthy and protected. We’ll assess your eye health, recommend the best protective eyewear for your work environment, and help you take steps to prevent future injuries. Visit any of our offices in Edgewater, Livingston, Watchung, or Paramus, New Jersey. Please call (201) 945-8931, (973) 535-1171, (908) 322-5020 or (201) 712-0888 to book an appointment today.