March is Workplace Eye Wellness Month

According to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, about 2,000 eye-related injuries occur in the workplace every day. With proper protection, many of these injuries can be prevented. At Eye Specialists of Mid-Florida, we strive to keep you informed on how to keep your eyes safe!

There are several ways you may be injured at work that could potentially cause temporary or permanent eye damage. Flying objects or chemicals can cause scratches, burns, or infections in the eye. Pathogens from blood and body fluids can transmit infectious diseases. If you work near flying objects or particles you need to wear safety glasses with side shields. Goggles are necessary if you work near chemicals. To prevent radiation damage from welding and lasers, a proper helmet or safety glasses are required. You do not need to worry if you need your glasses to see at work, many types of protection can be made with your prescription in them to help you see clearly. Depending on your work environment, contact lenses with protection over them could be an option to keep your eyes safe. Stay informed on potential hazards in your work environment. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) have set standards for the appropriate eyewear to protect you against eye injuries which includes face shields, goggles, and safety glasses.

What do you do if an accident occurs? If you get a chemical in your eye, take any contact lenses out, and wash your eyes with water for 15 minutes. If a foreign object flies into your eye, do not rub your eyes. First, attempt to use artificial tears to rinse it out. If you have a blow to your eye, gently place a bag of ice on your eye. For a possible cut in the eye, keep your eye shielded. After you take any of these first steps, seek medical attention by an eye doctor immediately.

At Eye Specialists of Mid-Florida, we can provide you with OSHA approved eyewear. Please contact us with any questions you may have regarding the appropriate eyewear you need for your workplace! Give us a call at 1-800-282-EYES(3937) to schedule an appointment, or visit our website www.eyesfl.com for more information. #2020YourVisionOurFocus

Bio:  Dr. Tincy Thomas received her undergraduate and Doctor of Optometry Degrees at Nova Southeastern University. Dr. Thomas practices at Eye Specialists of Mid-Florida’s Lakeland- Highlands location.   

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