Workplace safety is one of the most important aspects of any construction job. If the proper procedures are not put in place and properly followed, it can result in damaging injuries. Building trust in your team is essential, as it creates an environment where feedback and coaching are welcome. This open communication can bring to light potential safety hazards and risks identified on the job site. Safety should not just be an ideal that your company talks about in yearly meetings, but rather it should be a part of the company’s base culture, an active goal that plays a role in every task and conversation. One aspect of workplace safety that can be easily overlooked is eye injuries. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics claims that there are over 20,000 workplace eye injuries each year. At its worst, an eye injury could cause permanent damage, vision loss, or blindness. Eye protection should be taken seriously to prevent these injuries from impacting a job site and, more importantly, an employee’s health.
Common Construction Eye Injuries
In construction, eye injuries are an occurrence that can create severe injuries to the eyes in numerous ways. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission found that over 15,000 welding equipment-related eye injuries occur yearly. That makes welding one of the leading causes of eye injuries. Most of these injuries are due to an object or equipment hitting their eyes, but exposure to harmful substances is also a threat. Flying particles like wood chips, metal silvers, or cement chips can enter the eyes without proper protection. These items come from using tools, windblown, or falling from overhead work. Blunt trauma is another common eye injury on a construction site. With numerous potential elements, there is potential for a struck-by injury to occur. These injuries can be more severe and may need extensive medical attention. Welders must be conscious of the risk of thermal burns, and other construction workers must be aware of any harsh chemicals used on the job site.
How Can You Prevent Dangerous Injuries
Construction sites should always prioritize the worker’s safety. Simple steps can go a long way in preventing an accident from happening. The American Academy of Ophthalmology states that protective eyewear can prevent 90% of severe eye injuries. Protective eyewear, safety goggles, welding helmets, and face shields must be worn when necessary. Doing so reduces the risk of harmful eye injuries. It is also crucial to be aware of your surroundings. If you notice a fellow worker not wearing the proper eye protection required for their task, voice your concern immediately. Ensuring everyone knows potential hazards is one of the best ways to prevent injuries.
Vision Safety is Crucial
Procedures for eye protection should not only be discussed during March but should be a continuous conversation. Construction-related injuries can be preventable with proper training, safety procedures in place, and necessary protective gear used. At ARC, safety is deep-rooted into our culture. We will not want to send our workers to a job site improperly safety trained. We believe that safety should be a core value that offers multiple benefits for everyone. You can learn more about our commitment to safety here.