When considering construction injuries, it is common to think of head trauma, broken limbs and spinal cord injuries. While these injuries are commonplace, eye injuries are also a possibility.
Our vision plays a key role in almost everything we do in daily life, including workplace activities. However, research suggests that as many as 2000 eye injuries occur in the workplace each day in the United States. As a result, it is worth considering some of the common causes of eye injuries on construction sites.
Exposure to dust and grit
Certain work settings present a heightened risk of exposure to fine dust particles that can actually be sharp and dangerous to your vision. For example, wood dust, metal dust and concrete dust can all be quite hazardous. Exposure to fine dust particles can lead to both minor and serious eye injuries.
Lack of suitable protective eye equipment
Employers have a duty to provide workers with adequate personal protective equipment that will protect their vision. There are specialist types of protective eyewear that are designed specifically to reduce the risks of eye injury. Where these types of equipment have not been utilized, the risk of eye injury is heightened.
Exposure to bright lights
The eyes can become damaged when exposed to high levels of UV rays. One common example relates to welding. Not only do sparks involved in the welding procedure present a risk of eye injury, but the UV light itself has the potential to severely damage someone’s eyes. Again, suitable protective eye equipment could significantly reduce the risk of injury.
Understanding the common causes of construction-related eye injuries could help to protect you. Importantly, if you have been injured on a construction site, there may be legal options available to you that can help alleviate your financial burdens.
