Prevent Eye Injuries: Eye Safety Tips for Work & Play

EYE CARE

Eye safetY

Eye injuries can happen when you least expect them — especially in specific professions, or during certain sports and activities. Protecting your eyes in high-risk situations can help prevent injuries and potential vision damage.

On the job In the office At home In the sun

Eye safety
on the job

The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) reports that every day, 2,000 U.S. workers have job-related eye injuries that require medical treatment¹.

Safety glasses are necessary in professions like welding or mining, or in environments where bits of material often fly around. Some examples of this debris include wood chips, nails, cement chips, and metal parts and shavings.

Prescription safety glasses are recommended (and often required) for people who need vision correction in industries like carpentry, plumping, electrical work, car repair and landscaping.

EYE SAFETY IN THE
OFFICE

Spending long hours staring at a digital screen — whether on a computer, tablet or smartphone — can lead to digital eye strain. Blue light emitted from digital screens can cause digital eye fatigue and may raise a person’s risk of developing symptoms of macular degeneration at an earlier age².

Eye safety at home

Eye injuries can happen, even in the comfort of your home or yard. Keep these tips in mind when doing yardwork, using bleach or cooking with hot oil:

Read and follow the safety instructions listed on household chemicals, store them securely and never mix chemicals.
Check your lawn for rocks, toys and other objects before you mow. This helps you avoid getting hit with flying debris.
If you’re working on a DIY project, make sure to use the right tools and wear safety glasses.

EYE SAFETY IN THE
SUN

Don’t forget about protecting your eyes from the sun by wearing sunglasses, sunscreen and a hat. Prolonged exposure to the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays can lead to cataracts and other serious eye problems.

If you’re working or playing outdoors, consider sports sunglasses for durability and a more secure fit. Sunglasses with polarized lenses can reduce glare when driving or spending time on or near the water.

shop polarized sunglasses

HEALTHY HABITS FOR
SAFE EYES

Wear safety glasses when playing active sports.
Get fitted for custom safety glasses if your job puts your eyes in risky situations.
Wear sunglasses year-round.
Teach your kids to wear protective eyewear the same way they would wear a helmet when riding a bike.

SOURCES

Eye Safety The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). July 2013.
How blue light affects your eyes, sleep, and health. UC Davis Health. August 2022.

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