Statistics say more than 130,000 Australians seek medical attention each year due to eye injuries. Sixty per cent of that happened in the workplace, and 90% could have been avoided if they had worn the appropriate eye protection.
According to American writer Wallace D. Wattles, “It is essential to have good tools, but it is also essential that the tools should be used in the right way.” Face shields are a useful tool for protecting your face but will not give your eyes complete protection. It needs to be worn in conjunction with other safety PPEs like safety goggles or face masks, depending on the job hazards you work in. Similarly, a safety glass that is not worn properly or does not fit well will not perform the job of protecting your eye. No worker should be allowed to work without proper eye protection. Loss of vision due to negligence or industrial accident is crushing and crippling for the worker.
What industries should require using safety goggles?
- Manufacturing
- Health care facilities
- Laboratories
- Construction
- Mining
- Automobile
- Sports facilities
- Law enforcement
- Fire Department
- Military
- Steel, metalworking, foundry
- Agriculture
What is the difference between a safety glass and a safety goggle?
Both glasses can be made from the same lens quality that is shatter-proof and heat-resistant. The way they are worn spells the difference. Safety glasses are held on your head through two earpieces, while a safety goggle will have a strap that will help snugly and securely fit the goggle to your head. This will avoid the glasses from falling off while you work. While safety glasses offer eye protection, safety goggles provide better and added protection because of their design. Goggles have a tight and comprehensive seal around the eyes, which prevents dust particles, vapours and other small particles from entering through the top, side and bottom spaces around the eyes. It is also possible to use your safety goggles over your regular prescription glasses or even your safety glasses.
What should you consider in choosing safety goggles?
Manufacturers must comply with safety standards set under European safety standard EN 166: 2001 in producing safety goggles. There are three standards, namely EN 170 against ultraviolet radiation, 171 against infrared radiation and 172 against sun glare. Each standard has a set of quality grading and should show in the glasses’ frames and lenses. The ratings are mostly on strength, frame style and protection, radiation protection, light transmission, optical quality, and lens property. Find the most appropriate for your job. Buy only from reputable sellers for professional advice.
Should you wear goggles the whole day?
It all starts with getting only good quality safety goggles with the right fit but wearing them all day will not be harmful to your eyes. What will cause discomforts and headaches is eye fatigue. Prolonged eye focus will strain the eye and cause reduced productivity. You must check your goggles for scratches, dents or any sign of damage. These damages will impair your vision, reduce clarity, contribute to eye strain and even accident if left unaddressed.
Always use the right protective gear for your work. They were made to protect and not to burden. A little neglect may result in a lifetime of regret. Compliance is the key!
