Safety Eyewear Makes A Difference You Can See

It doesn't take a lot of insight to realize that protecting your eyesight at work is one of the most important safety measures you can take. Unfortunately, most workers who suffer eye injuries at work aren't wearing eye protection, or are not wearing the right type of safety eyewear. What can make finding the right kind of eye protection difficult is more than two thirds of all eye injuries are caused by flying or falling objects, most smaller than the head of a pin. So, where do you start? First, identify the hazards and discuss them with your supervisor. They could include the following:

* Flying objects such as splintered wood, metal, or other materials. 
* Sparks from grinding or welding. 
* Fumes or splashes from molten materials and chemicals. 
* Light rays from arc and electrical welding, furnace work or using acetylene equipment. 

Now that you've evaluated the hazards you face at work, it's time to consider what kind of protection you need. Your supervisor should also be aware of the kinds of protection required. There are three main types of protective eyewear.

Safety Glasses
Safety glasses look like regular glasses but offer real protection because, unlike regular glasses, they are designed with impact-resistant lenses and stronger frames. Safety glasses are still a requirement if you wear contact lenses. However, they are available in prescription for workers who require corrective lenses. Safety glasses can also come tinted, or with safety shields at the sides of the glasses to protect against objects flying toward the eye from the side.

Safety Goggles
Safety goggles, like safety glasses are impact resistant. They are also available with tinted lenses. They provide greater protection because they protect the eyes from objects flying from all directions, even from above. There are two types of ventilation available with safety goggles. Regular ventilation is for those workers who are not at risk from splash hazards. These workers require safety goggles with indirect ventilation.

Face Shields and Helmets
While face shields and helmets are not considered eye protection on their own, they are often used with eye protection. Workers often use full-face shields when they are exposed to chemical, glare or heat hazards. Helmets are used when workers face hazards from molten metal or welding.

You have considered the hazards in your workplace and chosen the right combination of protective eyewear. Here are some simple safety tips you should remember:

* Always wear eye protection. 
* Your eye protection must meet industrial standards. 
* Your protective eyewear must fit properly and be maintained properly. 
* Be aware of where first aid stations are located in your workplace. 
* Become familiar with first aid for the eye. 
* Seek medical attention immediately if you are injured in the eye or surrounding area. 

Until medical science develops an artificial eye that can see, you are on your own. Take care of the eyes you have - it will make a visible difference.