All of our senses are important, but this is especially the case for vision. Our eyes play a key role in almost every activity we carry out, including work-related activities. Most companies are aware of this and stress the importance of visual protection. Sadly, this isn’t always the case.
One piece of personal protective equipment (PPE) that is of the utmost importance is safety glasses. Outlined below are some of the key ways that safety glasses can protect you.
1. Keeping foreign objects out of your eyes
If you work in construction or any other manual working environment, then it’s likely that small pieces of wood, metal and other debris will be launched into the air at times. Small pieces of debris that travel through the air at high speeds essentially become missiles. If these strike you on the body then you are going to feel it, but if they hit your eyes, they can cause severe damage. Safety glasses act as a protective layer, so that even if debris hits this area of your face, it may not enter the eyes.
2. Protection from bright lights
Bright lights are also a safety issue in many jobs, particularly for welders. Welding instruments emit bright UV light that can cause serious damage when coming into direct contact with the eyes. Safety glasses and visors can be fitted with lenses that dim UV lights. Wearing such safety equipment can mean the difference between heading home in one piece at the end of the day and suffering a catastrophic eye injury.
Safety culture should not be overlooked in any company. If you’ve been hurt on the job, then you may be entitled to compensation for your suffering. Before taking your next steps, be sure to seek some legal guidance.