Weekly Safety Meeting – Eye Safety on the Job

Eye injuries of all types occur at a rate of more than 1000 per day. Each year some 100,000 occur, many of these are disabling because of temporary or permanent vision loss.

A recent survey by the Bureau of Labor statistics found that three out of five workers who suffer an eye injury wore no protection. And, of those who did, 40% wore the wrong kind.

We should wear safety eyewear whenever there is any chance that machines or operations present the hazard of flying objects, chemicals, harmful radiation, or a combination of these or other hazards.

Experts believe that proper eye protection could have prevented or reduced the severity of injury in at least 90% of all accidents.

OSHA Criteria for Eye Protection:

All eye protection must follow the American National Standards Institute ANSI Z87.1. All eyewear worn as PPE must at the very least:

• Provide appropriate protection;
• Have a safe design suited for the work that is going to be carried out;
• Be comfortable as possible without compromising safety standards;
• Fit snugly but not impede the movements of the wearer;
• Be durable;
• Be easy to clean and able to withstand disinfecting;
• Only be marked with the manufacturer’s identification; and
• Used in conjunction with proper training.

Eye Hazards:

There are four types of particles that can cause eye injuries on the job.

• Unidentified flying objects. These microscopic objects consist of dust and particles floating around in the air, generated by wind, equipment, or cleaning operations. When working in dusty conditions, where eye protection. Even a small speck in the eye can lead to trouble.
• Particles resulting from chipping, grinding, sawing, brushing, hammering, or using powered tools. These particles move at an amazing speed and strike with the force of a bullet. Wear eye protection anytime overhead operations are performed. It may be advisable on some jobs to wear safety goggles under a full-face shield.

• Invisible hazards. You cannot see the injurious light rays generated by laser beams or welding operations. Their effects often are not felt until hours later. Wear the eye protection required when using such equipment. If you happen to be working nearby, don’t look in the direction of welding arcs or where a laser beam is being operated.
• Liquids. Hot liquids, such as tar or asphalt, solvents, paint, and solutions for cleaning masonry or metal can cause serious eye injuries if splashed in or on your face. The use of proper eye protection, possibly a full-face shield, is essential when transferring liquids between containers and when using caustic or acid cleaners.

Making the Most of Eye Protection:

Eye protectors are only as good as they fit. A poor fit is not only uncomfortable, but it also defeats the purpose of wearing the protection. Good fitting eye protection keeps objects and splashes away from the eyes. Poor fitting eye protection should be replaced.

Eye and face protectors will fit better and lasts longer if they are cared for properly. Proper care includes:

• Before each wearing, checking for bent or damaged frames, scratched lenses, and loose or damaged headbands.
• After each wearing, wash gently in soapy warm water, rinsing thoroughly, and air drying.
• Store in a clean, dust proof case.

You eyesight is a precious gift. Do not wait too long you come to your senses. If your work presents an exposure to a hazard, wear your eye protection.

EYES ARE PRICELESS…EYE PROTECTION IS CHEAP!