More Than One Million Workers Suffer From Eye Injuries Each Year in the U.S

April 8, 2009
By: Brandon Sutkowi

More Than One Million Workers Suffer From Eye Injuries Each Year in the U.S.

Each day in the United States, more than 2,000 employees sustain job-related eye injuries. Of these, 10% - 20% will be disabling because of temporary or permanent vision loss. Most research suggests that failure to wear eye protection (or the incorrect selection of eye protection) is the most frequent problem. Hazardous Jobs.


The occupations that have the highest rate of workplace eye injuries are automobile repair mechanics and construction workers, especially welders, plumbers, machine operators, and carpenters. The number one source of eye injury is metal chips or particles coming in contact with the eye.

Many objects can fly into your eyes unexpectedly. Eye injury can result from splinters and other flying objects from grinding and machining operations, operating compressed-air equipment, and during cleaning and similar operations.

Eye irritation can be caused by contact with irritating chemicals and their dusts and fumes. Examples of these are antiknock agents and ketone solvents.

Research on work-related eye injuries in the United States suggests that the problem is greatest for the automotive industry. This is likely due to the types of exposures and tasks in this industry:

In addition to the hazards listed above, battery acid, sparks and debris from damaged or improperly jump-started auto batteries can severely damage your eyes.

Preventative Measures.

Prevention is the first and most important step in protecting your eyes from injuries. More than one million people suffer from eye injuries each year in the United States. Ninety percent of these injuries could have been prevented if the individuals had been wearing appropriate protective eyewear.

In the workplace, think about the work you will be doing and wear protective eyewear to shield your eyes from flying fragments, fumes, dust particles, sparks and splashing chemicals.

Always wear appropriate safety eyewear for your job. Remember that many of the thousands injured each day didn't think they needed to wear eye protection or wore eyewear inappropriate for the job. Safety eyewear must have "ANSI Z87.1" marked on the frame or lens. If you are unsure about the quality of your eye protection, consult a safety supervisor or a supplier. Check with your employer or eye doctor to learn about the safety eyewear appropriate for your occupation.

What to do in the Event of an Eye Injury. If eye injury occurs, apply these emergency care procedures and then seek treatment immediately from an eye care professional or emergency room:

For chemical splashes such as battery acid or paint thinner, flood the eye non-stop with clean water for 15 minutes to dilute or remove the chemical. For alkaline burns such as lime, lye, ammonia, plaster of Paris, or fireworks powder, irrigate the eye for 30 minutes.

For blows to the eye by a blunt object, lightly apply a cold compress. Do not attempt to wash, rub or apply pressure to the eye, even to stop blood flow.

For penetrating injuries, bandage lightly.

If an object is stuck in the eye, leave it there and seek treatment.

For foreign material in the eye, do not rub. Lift the upper eyelid and pull it down over the lashes. This will cause tears, which can flush the foreign matter out. If unsuccessful, seek treatment.

Last but not least, remember to have an eye examination every one - two years.

Disclaimer: The brevity of this article prevents comprehensive consideration of all issues. The information contained herein should not be considered as insurance advice; such is expressly disclaimed. For specific matters, consult with your insurance agent.

Brandon Sutkowi, Personal Lines Manager
Meadowbrook Insurance Agency
I invite your questions and feedback

Questions? Click Here to E-Mail Brandon Sutkowi