Each year more than 2.5 million eye injuries occur and 50,000 people permanently lose part or all of their vision, according to the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality. In 2018, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported 24,300 workplace injuries related to the eye, accounting for 37% of all head injuries involving days away from work and 62% of all face injuries involving days away from work! Yet, more than 90% of all eye injuries are preventable with the use of protective eyewear.
It comes a no surprise that workers in the construction industry are among the highest at-risk occupations of incurring an eye injury. Without proper precautions, harmful particles on a construction site can lead to an unsightly end.
Demolition projects pose an even greater risk for potential eye injuries. Large saws cut into concrete, spewing fine clouds of dust filled with sharp, microscopic particles. Torches and saws spark against steel as scalding hot, tiny particles of material are thrown off and heated up so hot that they glow. Improper use of chemical concrete demolition agents can lead to potential risks, including eye injury. As the level of risk increases, the amount of protection and coverage should also increase.
How do you reduce your risk of injury during demolition?
The simple, yet most overlooked, answer is to wear safety glasses. Safety glasses with side shields better protect workers from airborne particles while sawing, hammering or drilling.
When working with chemicals or drilling concrete at or above shoulder level, wear full-face shields or goggles to eliminate any splashing or dust particles going around the safety glasses. When performing tasks that have the potential hazard of throwing flying sparks, molten metal, or liquid chemicals, be sure to wear the appropriate eye and face protection as advised by your safety team and meets OSHA standards.
