Protective Gear - PPE By Type - Eye Protection

Eye Protection

Each day, about 2000 US workers have a job-related eye injury that requires medical attention. Eye injuries can happen through a variety of means. Most eye injuries occur when solid particles such as metal slivers, wood chips, sand or cement chips get into the eye. Smaller particles in smokes and larger particles, such as broken glass also account for particulate matter causing eye injuries. Blunt force trauma can occur to the eye when excessive force comes into contact with the eye. Chemical burns, biological agents, and thermal agents, from sources such as welding torches and UV light also contribute to occupational eye injury.

While the recommended usage of eye protection varies by occupation, the provision of safety furnished by said piece of equipment can be generalized. Safety glasses provide minimum protection from external debris, and are recommended to provide side protection via a wrap-around design or via side shields. Goggles provide better protection than safety glasses, and are effective in preventing eye injury from chemical splashes, impact, dusty environments and welding. It is recommended that goggles with high air flow be used, in order to prevent fogging. Face shields are a useful form of additional protection to be worn over the standard eyewear, and provide protection from impact, chemical, and blood-borne hazards. Full-facepiece respirators are considered the best form of eye protection when respiratory protection is needed as well, but may be less effective against potential impact hazards to the eye. Eye protection used for welding operations is shaded to different degrees, depending on the specific operation.