Eye safety can be a major concern for workers in construction, mining and other New Jersey industries that pose a risk of exposure to dangerous materials. However, eye protection and safety can also be important for workers behind a desk in an office. Since injuries that affect vision can be particularly expensive and personally devastating, it should be a priority to protect eye safety in the workplace.
Every year, around 20,000 workers in the United States experience workplace injuries involving the eyes. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, these types of eye injuries lead to costs in productivity of $300 million. For workers, however, the individual cost can be far greater. Beyond the expenses of medical bills or lost wages, an eye injury can cause severe pain, vision loss or blindness. Some estimates note that up to 90 percent of eye damage in the workplace is preventable through the use of protective eyewear, including safety glasses, face shields or other equipment.
While construction and manufacturing workplaces are more hazardous, there are many eye injuries that can also take place in office jobs. For example, desk workers can experience damage caused by repeated computer usage and extended screen time.
Employers can help increase the level of eye safety in the workplace by ensuring that adequate safety equipment and training is provided. Despite this, every year, thousands of workers struggle with the effects of serious eye damage suffered on the job. Injured workers have the right to compensation and benefits, and workers’ compensation lawyers can help them to protect their rights.