Home Eye Care

Wednesday, March 03, 2010 - gthompson

Home Eye Care

Eye injuries occur by rubbed or abraded foreign matter, such as metal chips, dirt particles, and splinters, or by striking the eye. Surface wounds such as: abrasions, scratches, splinters and chips are among the most common types of eye injuries. Other hazards include: chemicals, adhesives, radiation, tools, and equipment.

Four out of ten accidents that cause blindness happen at home. Off-the-job eye injuries happen because of "Do-it-yourself" work. Take precautionary measures by using PPE (Personal Protective Equipment)

 

Wear the right protection for the job you are doing. Choose sunglasses that offer protection from the sun's ultraviolet rays. Wear eye protection while doing repair jobs and working with chemicals at home.

 

What to do in case of an emergency:

Chemical Splash:  Don't squeeze eyes shut. Hold them open with thumb and index finger and flood with cool, clean water for 15-20 minutes. Get medical help as soon as possible. If you can, have the chemical container and its label available for evaluation.

 

Flying Particles:  Don't try to remove anything embedded in the eye. You could cause further damage. Cover both eyes to prevent movement. Get medical help as soon as possible.

 

Radiation Injuries, Burns:  If the eyes are exposed to intense heat, flames, lasers or arc welding radiation, apply ice packs to relieve the pain. Get medical attention as soon as possible.

Blows to the Eyes:  Apply ice packs to control swelling and relieve the pain. Cover both eyes to prevent movement. Get medical attention as soon as possible.

 

Eyestrain:  Glare, poor lighting and long periods spent at video display terminals can cause eye fatigue, soreness, and headaches. Improve the job-site lighting. Give eyes adequate rest.

Safety is No Accident!

For more information, please visit AMERIND Safety Services’ web page at www.amerindrisk.org ->> News and Resources ->> Safety Services or visit the National Safety Council’s Web site at www.NSC.org. Contact the AMERIND Safety Services Team by telephone at 800.352.3496.

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