The importance of eye protection in the workplace is often underestimated, but a minor accident can have major consequences. Think of a metal splinter that hits the eye while sharpening, or a chemical liquid that accidentally splashes into the face. In some cases, such incidents may result in permanent damage or even blindness. That's why it's important to take eye protection seriously. In this article, we discuss the risks of working without eye protection, the obligations that the Working Conditions Act imposes on employers, and how to ensure that employees can work safely.

What are the risks of working without eye protection?

Working without eye protection exposes employees to a range of risks. Depending on the type of work, these risks can lead to temporary or permanent vision damage. Here are some of the biggest dangers:

1. Heat

High temperatures, such as welding or forging, can damage the eyes. Eyes that are exposed to heat can dry out, and prolonged exposure can even cause corneal burns. This makes wearing protective eyewear with heat-resistant lenses crucial in such work environments.

2. Fire

Fire can cause burns not only to the skin, but also to the eyes. Welders and workers who work with open flames are particularly at risk of sparks or hot gases that can damage the eye. Welding goggles are specifically designed to reduce this risk.

3. Cold

Extreme cold, although less commonly mentioned, can also be harmful to the eyes. Exposure to low temperatures can cause eye tissue to freeze, which can cause serious damage.

4. UV radiation

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation often occurs in welding work. Prolonged exposure without adequate eye protection can lead to conditions such as welding eyes, where the cornea burns.

5. Ionizing radiation

In sectors such as the medical world, the nuclear industry and industrial radiography, ionizing radiation seriously damage the eyes. Prolonged exposure without protection may cause cataracts (cataracts).

6. Dangerous substances

Many workplaces use chemicals that can enter the eyes in liquid or gas form. Even a small amount of a corrosive substance can cause permanent damage.

7. Cutting and stitching

Construction, metalworking or woodworking workers are at risk of flying particles such as splinters, sawdust or metal particles that can get into the eyes. This can result in lacerations in the eye or, in extreme cases, blindness.

8. Liquids

Chemical fluids, such as cleaning agents or industrial solvents, can seriously irritate or damage the eyes. Safety glasses should always be worn in these cases.

9. Pathogens

In sectors such as healthcare and laboratories, biological hazards, such as viruses and bacteria, can enter the eyes. This makes eye protection important to prevent infections.

Legal obligations under the Working Conditions Act

The Working Conditions Act (Working Conditions Act) requires employers to ensure the safety and health of their employees. This means that they are responsible for minimizing workplace risks, including providing adequate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as eye protection.

according article 3 of the Working Conditions Act employers must provide appropriate protective equipment when workers' health or safety is at risk. This also applies to work environments where eye injuries are a risk. The provision of appropriate safety glasses, adapted to the specific risks of the work, is mandatory in such cases.

Employers must also ensure:

• Regular maintenance of eye protection products to ensure that they are always in good condition.
• Training of workers in the proper use of eye protection.
• Replacement of PPE when they are worn or damaged.

Failure to comply with these obligations may result in fines and other legal consequences for the employer.

It is critical that eye protection equipment is used correctly and maintained properly to ensure their effectiveness. In particular, if the personal protective equipment (PPE) is custom-made, such as prescription safety glasses, it must be checked regularly. The lenses must still provide the correct correction and the glasses must guarantee the intended protection.

When customized personal protective equipment is no longer suitable, it no longer works effectively and no longer complies with legal obligations. Indeed, employers are obliged to provide appropriate protective equipment that meets the requirements of the Working Conditions Act.

Different types of eye protection

Depending on the work environment, different types of eye protection are available. Below is an overview of the most used varieties:

1. Safety glasses

These glasses offer protection against flying particles such as dust, metal or wood. They often have side covers to protect the eyes from all sides.

2. Welding goggles

Welding goggles not only protect against heat, but are also equipped with UV filters to protect the eyes from harmful radiation.

3. Wide vision goggles

The glasses protect your eyes and your own glasses. In addition, it closes the eyes so that no dust can get in.

4. Face shields

Face shields provide complete face protection and are ideal for work environments where hazardous liquids or fumes are present.

The right use of eye protection

To be effective, eye protection equipment must be used properly. Here are some tips:

• Make sure you have the right fit: Eye protection must be firm and comfortable without moving, so that your eyes are always well protected.
• Regular maintenance: Check safety glasses regularly for damage such as scratches or broken parts. Replace damaged eyeglasses immediately.
• Replace on time: Worn eye protection must be replaced in good time to ensure complete protection.

Frequently asked questions about eye protection

1. Is eye protection mandatory in every workplace?

Eye protection is only mandatory in workplaces where there is a risk of eye injury. The employer must have a RI&E perform to determine whether eye protection is necessary.

2. Can regular eyeglasses be used as eye protection?

No, regular glasses do not provide sufficient protection. Workers who wear prescription glasses must use prescription goggles.

3. How often should eye protection be replaced?

Eye protection should be replaced when it is damaged or worn, or when effectiveness can no longer be guaranteed.

4. What are the consequences for employers if they do not provide eye protection?

Employers who do not adequately protect their employees risk fines from the SZW Inspectorate (Social Affairs and Employment) and can be held liable for injuries caused by negligence.

Eye protection is essential in many work environments and is often required by law. By providing the right eye protection equipment and training employees how to use them, employers can prevent serious eye injuries and meet the requirements of the Working Conditions Act. Failure to comply with these obligations may result in significant legal and financial consequences.

Sources:

• Occupational Health Portal: Eye Protection
• Legislation and regulations: Working Conditions Act (BWBR0010346)

‍