Workers in many different occupations are at risk for eye injuries. Some high-risk jobs include the following:
- Maintenance
- Welding
- Mining
- Manufacturing
- Construction
Although a worker’s occupation may increase their risk for an eye injury, experts say that failing to wear eye protection is a top cause for eye injuries. Wearing proper eye protection is crucial in the workplace. Additionally, certain machines should have work screens or other types of controls built in that protect the eyes of employees.
According to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), about 2,000 people in the United States every day experience vision-threatening eye emergencies at work. Every year, there are about 300,000 hospitalizations caused by work-related eye injuries.
What Eye Protection Should be Worn?
There are three types of eye protection to consider:
- Workers in an environment with flying particles, objects, and dust must wear safety glasses with side protection.
- Lab workers or others working with chemicals must wear safety goggles.
- Workers who work with machines that produce radiation, such as lasers, fiber optics, or welding equipment, must use specialized safety masks or helmets.
Assisting Coworkers with Eye Injuries
Workers should also be trained to recognize and react if coworkers are experiencing eye-related emergencies. Some signs of serious eye injuries include the following:
- Blood in the clear part of the eye.
- The feeling of something in the eye that cannot be removed.
- An unusual pupil size or shape.
- One eye does not move well.
- One eye sticks out compared to the other eye.
- The coworker is experiencing pain or vision problems.
What if I Get Chemicals in My Eye?
If a worker gets chemicals in their eye, they should do the following:
- Flush the eye with water for at least 15 minutes using a faucet, shower, or even a garden hose.
- Remove any contact lenses.
- Do not put more chemicals in the eye in an attempt to neutralize the chemicals.
- Seek immediate medical attention after flushing.
What Should I Do if My Eye is Cut or Punctured?
If an employee’s eye is cut or punctured, it is important to do the following steps:
- Do not wash out the eye.
- Do not attempt to remove any objects from the eye.
- Cover the eye with a rigid and clean shield, like the bottom of a plastic or paper cup.
- Immediately seek medical attention.
Can I Get Compensation for an Eye Injury?
If one suffers an eye injury at work or another type of work injury, they are entitled to workers’ compensation. After a work accident, a hurt employee should seek medical attention right away. After seeing a doctor, it is important to speak to a lawyer. A lawyer will ensure that the injured worker receives the maximum amount of compensation that is possible.
Chester County Workers’ Compensation Lawyers at Wusinich, Sweeney & Ryan, LLC Help Workers with Serious Eye Injuries
Eye injuries are often serious, so it is important to speak to a lawyer right away. Our Chester County worker’s compensation lawyers at Wusinich, Sweeney & Ryan, LLC help injured workers get compensation. Contact us online or call us at 610-594-1600 for a free consultation. Located in Exton, Pennsylvania, we serve clients throughout Downingtown, West Chester, Exton, Coatesville, Phoenixville, Malvern, Lyndell, Wagontown, Uwchlan Township, Parkesburg, Chester Springs, Lancaster County, Reading, and Morgantown.