July is Eye-Injury Prevention Month
What You Should Know….
According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, over one million people suffer an eye injury every year in the United States and ninety percent of these injuries may be prevented just by wearing safety eyewear (with the markings “ANSI Z87.1” on the lenses or frame). Injuries are not restricted to the work environment, but may also occur in the home, garden, around a car, etc. Consumer fireworks and household chemicals are also leading causes of injury.
The following tips may help to prevent eye injuries and even permanent vision loss:
Be aware of potential safety hazards at home, in the work environment, or even when participating in recreational activities.
When working on projects that require the use of tools, such
as doing yard work, making home repairs, or jump starting a car, wear safety goggles to shield your eyes from flying fragments, fumes, dust particles, sparks, and splashing chemicals. Many objects can fly into your eyes unexpectedly and cause injury.
When using household chemicals, read instructions and labels carefully, work in a well-ventilated area, make sure to point spray nozzles away from you, and avoid wearing contact lenses. Many chemicals are extremely hazardous and can permanently destroy the surface of your eyes.
Always wash your hands thoroughly after working with chemicals or other materials that may contain particles that could damage your eye.
In case of a chemical burn, flush the eye with clean water and seek emergency treatment.
Wear protective eyewear when engaging in sports. (Suggestion: Polycarbonate lenses do not shatter, they just crack if struck with a high velocity object.)
Avoid fireworks unless attending a professional display. Even sparklers are dangerous to both the user and bystanders.
Eyes can also be damaged by sun exposure, not just by chemicals, dust, and objects. Always wear sunglasses to counter the possible effect of sun rays when outdoors for extended periods times.
Injuries may result from exposure to infections. Wash hands frequently when in contact with large groups of people or caring for people with colds or viruses.
Be a good role model and teach your children about eye safety. Get protective eyewear for your children, help them use it properly, and:
- Tell children that any kind of missile, projectile such as a rock, or BB gun is not a toy.
- Show them the proper way to carry sharp or pointed objects such as scissors
- Let them know that flying toys should never be pointed at another person.
Last but not least… Should an eye injury occur, seek immediate medical attention from an ophthalmologist or an optometrist, even if the injury seems minor. If one is not available, go to the nearest emergency room.
For more information on eye safety visit the U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention web site: http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/eye/
