Safety Topic - Eye Protection
Toolbox Talk: Protecting Your Eyes on the Job
KNOW THE RISK
Every day in the U.S., approximately 2,000 workers suffer from eye injuries on the job, with construction workers among the most affected. Many of these injuries result from flying debris, chemicals, or hazardous materials that could be prevented with proper eye protection.
Wearing the right eye protection is essential—it should be durable, provide clear vision, and not interfere with other personal protective equipment (PPE). Even a minor eye injury can cause long-term damage, reduced vision, or blindness.
MITIGATE THE RISK
1. Use Machine Guards as the First Line of Defense:
- When working with machinery, ensure guards are in place to prevent the escape of particles, reducing the risk of eye injuries.
2. Wear Properly Rated Eye Protection:
- Ensure safety glasses, goggles, and face shields are marked with the ANSI Z87 standard, which indicates they meet safety requirements for impact and chemical protection.
3. Select the Right Eye Protection for the Task:
- Splash goggles should be used when handling liquid chemicals, cryogenic liquids, explosive materials, or pyrophoric materials to prevent hazardous splashes from reaching the eyes.
- Safety glasses with a face shield should be worn when grinding metal or handling infectious materials to provide both impact and splash protection.
EYE SAFETY REMINDERS
- Inspect eye protection for scratches or damage before each use.
- Clean lenses regularly for clear visibility.
- Ensure a proper fit so that eye protection remains secure during work.
Your eyesight is irreplaceable—don’t take unnecessary risks. Wear the right eye protection for the job, and prevent avoidable injuries!
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