A broad range of workplace circumstances can impact eye health. Fortunately, there are many ways you can protect your eyes, whether you spend the day staring at screens or work around power tools. In honor of Workplace Eye Wellness Month, learn how to prevent eye infections, injuries, and strain with the helpful guide below. 

Eye Health at the Office

While the risk of an injury is low in offices compared to other settings, professionals in this environment are more likely to experience eye strain and headaches. To avoid these symptoms, follow the 20/20/20 rule: take a 20-second break by focusing on an object 20 feet away from your computer screen every 20 minutes. Additionally, if you experience dry eyes, use optometrist-approved eye drops.

Eye Health at Construction Sites, Shops, & Factories

Those who work in construction, automotive, manufacturing, and similar industries face unique eye hazards. Particles from dust, metal, and building materials can enter and injure the eye. Working with power tools like welders is also risky. Wear safety goggles on site at all times—the wind can blow particles into your eyes even during work lulls. Additionally, if you work outdoors, put on eyewear with UV protection to negate the sun’s harmful rays.

Workers in health care, janitorial, laboratory, and animal industries are more likely to contract eye infections. Coming into contact with biohazards exposes these individuals not only to contagious eye infections such as conjunctivitis, but also communicable diseases like the flu. That’s why you need to wear protection such as eyewear and gloves as well as follow protocol for handling hazardous materials.

In addition to protecting your vision at work, receiving annual eye exams is critical to supporting long-term eye health. If you’re due for an exam, contact Ala Moana Eyecare Associates in Honolulu, HI. From treating eye infections and injuries to providing routine exams, contact lenses, and glasses, this one-stop shop has served locals’ eye care needs for over 20 years. Browse their services online, or call (808) 946-3937 to schedule an appointment.