Top Causes of Workplace Eye Injuries

Flying wood chips. Industrial cleaning products. Welding sparks.

Each year, more than one million Americans are affected by eye injuries. However, EHS Today states 90% of these incidents could have been avoided if individuals had worn the proper personal protective equipment (PPE).

In recognition of Eye Injury Prevention Month, we’re highlighting the top causes of workplace eye injuries—and how employers can help address them.

According to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) eye injuries are often the result of the following:

Striking or scraping, where small objects or particles fall from above, are ejected by tools, or otherwise blown into individuals’ eyes.

Penetration, during which nails, staples, metals, or other items enter the eyeball.

Chemical and thermal burns that cause damage to the eyes and surrounding tissue.To help minimize the risk of injuries from chemical, environmental, radiological, or mechanical-related hazards, OSHA recommends workplaces implement engineering or administrative controls. If these are “not feasible or effective in reducing exposures to acceptable levels,” then eye and face protection must be provided. NIOSH recommends employers conduct assessments to determine the appropriate type of PPE for their workers. If you need assistance with this, contact our team of experts at webquestion@cteh.com.