March is Workplace Eye Wellness Month, which is a great opportunity to remind everyone about the importance of vision protection. Some professions have obvious hazards, like those that require working around heavy machinery or chemicals. Others may have less physical risk but can still harm the eyes. For example, jobs that involve working on a computer each day. Every employee should know how to keep their vision safe while on the clock.
Outdoor and Industrial Jobs –
Outdoor and industrial jobs such as construction or landscaping usually involve the use of machines and tools. These can be dangerous to the eyes if handled without proper protection. To ensure eye safety, please follow these steps:
- Wear personal protective gear, ex: safety goggles.
- Use safe practices to minimize unstable or falling objects.
- Only use tools and machines that are well-maintained.
- Shake off debris from head and hair before removing goggles.
- Keep goggles clean and replace damaged eyewear as needed.
- Never rub eyes with dirty hands.
Office Jobs –
Just because you aren’t working in a rugged environment doesn’t mean there aren’t any risks. Computers can also be harmful to eyes. Once again, to ensure proper safety, follow these steps:
- Adjust the monitor to a right angle away from direct light sources.
- Remember to blink regularly to prevent dry eyes.
- Stay hydrated, especially when working near heaters or furnace vents in the winter.
- Artificial tears may be used as needed.
- An anti-glare screen may be installed to a monitor/screen.
In an office setting, one could also apply the 20-20-20 rule. For every 20 minutes of work, take a break and look at an object that is at least 20 feet away for 20 seconds or more at one time. This could help prevent digital eye strain.
No matter which career path is followed, it is important to obtain regular comprehensive and dilated eye exams to check vision. Call Ophthalmic Specialists of Michigan today to schedule an appointment at 1-800-237-EYES (3937).
#OSM #OphthalmicSpecialistsofMichigan #WorkplaceEyeWellnessMonth #ProtectiveEyeWear #EyeExams
