What Can You Do to Protect Your Eyes at Work?

Workplace eye wellness includes taking precautions from your computer screens to shielding your eyes from injuries. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that about 20,000 eye injuries happen at work every year. These injuries range from eye strain to serious injuries that may result in permanent damage, visual loss, and blindness.

Digital Eye Strain

Computer vision syndrome, also known as digital eye strain, are related vision problems from prolonged screen usage. The average American worker spends on average 7 hours a day on a computer. Hence, causing eye discomfort and vision problems when viewing digital screens for extended periods. The most common symptoms of computer vision syndrome are caused by poor lighting, improper viewing distances, poor seating, or uncorrected vision. Thus, leading to eyestrain, headaches, blurred vision, dry eyes, neck and shoulder pain.

Solutions to Reduce Eye Strain

To help alleviate digital eye strain, follow the 20-20-20 rule. Take a 20-second break to view something 20 feet away every 20 minutes. Place your screen 20 to 26 inches away from your eyes and a little bit below eye level. Use anti-reflective lenses to reduce glare and also block blue light from digital devices. Lastly, make sure to book an appointment for your comprehensive eye exam to determine if prescription glasses can alleviate your symptoms.

Preventing Workplace Eye Injuries

When working around flying shards of metal or glass, particles of wood splinters, or spattered chemicals, always put on proper protective eyewear while working even if there is the slightest chance of eye injuries.

We recommend safety glasses with side shields if you work around particles, flying objects or dust.

• Wear goggles if you handle chemicals.
• Wear specially-designed safety glasses, goggles, face shields, or helmets if you work near welding, lasers or fiber optics.

What to do in case of an eye injury?

You should seek medical attention as soon as possible. Delaying medical attention can result in permanent vision loss or blindness. If you injure your eye, it’s best to go see your eye care provider immediately, even if the eye injury appears minor. Get medical help right away if you notice any of the following signs:

• Pain or discomfort
• Red eye
• Light sensitivity
• Blurry vision
• Flashing lights or new floaters in vision
• Double vision or pain on eye movement

Our eyesight is crucial for productive work, independence and our quality of life. Make it a priority to protect your eyes and preserve your eyesight!