Reviewed By: Dr. Robert B. Fox
March is Workplace Eye Wellness Month, a time to raise awareness about protecting your eyes on the job. According to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), about 2,000 U.S. workers suffer job-related eye injuries that need medical treatment every day. However, 90% of these injuries are preventable with the right eye protection and safety measures.
At Griffey Eye Care & Laser Center, we know taking proactive steps to protect your eyes can prevent workplace injuries and long-term vision problems. Here are 10 essential tips to keep your eyes safe on the job this March, Workplace Eye Wellness Month, and every month!
1. Wear the Right Eye Protection
If your workplace involves flying debris, chemicals, or bright lights, protective eyewear is a must. Safety glasses, goggles, or face shields can reduce the risk of eye injuries and should meet OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) standards.
2. Follow the 20-20-20 Rule
Spending long hours staring at a screen? Avoid digital eye strain by practicing the 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. This simple habit can relieve eye fatigue and dryness.
3. Keep Your Screen at Eye Level
Position your computer screen 20-26 inches away from your eyes and slightly below eye level. Adjust brightness and contrast settings to reduce glare and minimize strain.
4. Blink More Often
Blinking helps moisturize your eyes and prevent dryness, especially when using screens for extended periods. If your eyes feel dry, consider using artificial tears or a humidifier in your workspace.
5. Take Regular Breaks
If your job requires intense focus, take a break every 1-2 hours to rest your eyes. Step away from the screen, stretch, and give your vision a reset.
6. Adjust Your Lighting
Poor lighting can cause eye strain and headaches. Ensure your workspace has proper lighting—not too dim or too bright—and position screens to reduce glare from windows or overhead lights.
7. Wash Your Hands Before Touching Your Eyes
Workplace environments can expose you to dust, dirt, and chemicals. To prevent eye infections, always wash your hands before touching your eyes, applying contacts, or using eye drops.
8. Know the Eye Hazards in Your Workplace
Whether you work in construction, healthcare, manufacturing, or an office, it’s important to identify potential eye hazards. Common risks to your workplace eye wellness include:
- Projectiles
- Chemicals
- Radiation
- Bloodborne pathogens
9. Use Anti-Glare Screens and Blue Light Filters
If you work in front of a computer, use an anti-glare screen and blue light filter glasses to reduce eye strain and exposure to harmful blue light, which can contribute to headaches and sleep disturbances.
10. Schedule Regular Eye Exams
Annual comprehensive eye exams can help detect vision issues before they become serious. If you experience frequent headaches, blurry vision in one or both eyes or difficulty focusing at work, it may be time for an eye check-up.
Questions about coverage? Read our blog: Does Medicare Cover Eye Exams?
Protect Your Vision with Griffey Eye Care
Your eyes are one of your most valuable assets—don’t take them for granted! This Workplace Eye Wellness Month, take steps to protect your vision and ensure a safe, healthy work environment. If you need an eye exam or specialized care, Griffey Eye Care & Laser Center is here to help at any of our three locations.
