March is Workplace Eye Wellness Month at Eyecare Medical Group. And while your eyes are precious 365 days of the year, this month is a great time to focus on the importance of keeping your eyes healthy at work.
Whether you work in an office or on a construction site, taking care of your eyes should be a top priority. Thankfully, you can take simple steps to mitigate the risk for your eyes.
Read on to find out why Workplace Eye Wellness Month is important and what steps you can take to protect your vision.
Why is Workplace Eye Wellness Important?
Your eyes are essential for almost every work task. When your eyes are strained or damaged, it can lead to headaches, blurred vision, and even long-term eye problems.
Workplace Eye Wellness Month reminds you of the achievable habits you can employ to protect your eyes at work, which will benefit you in your everyday life. No matter what kind of profession you work in, there are steps you can take.
What You Can Do At Work To Protect Your Eyes
You can do several things to protect your eyes at work. A great first step is to consider your working environment and ensure your workspace is well-lit and free of glare.
If you work on a computer, position your screen slightly below eye level and take regular breaks to look away from it. Always wear protective eyewear, such as safety glasses or goggles, if you work with chemicals or tools.
Digital Eye Strain and Eye Wellness for Office Workers
The classic office is the most common type of work setting among Americans, meaning many likely spend significant time looking at digital screens. Doing so can lead to digital eye strain, which can cause symptoms like dry eyes, blurred vision, and headaches.
To prevent digital eye strain, follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. This simple exercise helps your eyes relax and reduces strain.
Tips for Avoiding Eye Strain
In addition to the 20-20-20 rule, there are other ways to avoid eye strain at work. Try to blink often to keep your eyes moist, and consider using artificial tears if your eyes feel dry.
Make sure your workspace is well-lit, but avoid harsh overhead lighting. If you wear glasses or contacts, make sure your prescription is up to date.
Occupational Eye Safety for Manual Workers
If you work in a profession that involves physical labor or working with tools, eye safety is even more critical. To protect your eyes, you’ll need to use eye protection.
Eye Protection
Flying debris, chemicals, and other hazards can cause serious eye injuries. Always wear appropriate eye protection, such as safety glasses or goggles, when working with tools or in hazardous environments.
When choosing eye safety gear, ensure it fits properly and provides adequate protection for the task. Safety glasses should have side shields and be impact-resistant.
Goggles provide even more protection and are necessary when working with chemicals or in dusty environments. Face shields can provide additional protection when needed.
Remember, your eyes are precious, and protecting them should be a priority at work and home. By following these tips and making eye wellness a habit, you can keep your vision clear and healthy for years to come.
This Workplace Eye Wellness Month, take a moment to assess your eye health habits and make any necessary changes. Schedule an appointment at Eyecare Medical Group in Portland, ME, to discuss if your habits are working for you!
