Why is sunlight harmful to the eyes?

Sunlight contains ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which is divided into three types:

• UVA: Penetrates deep into the eye and can retinal damage cause.
• UVB: Can it corneal damage and increases the risk of cataract.
• UVC: It is largely blocked by the atmosphere, but can occur artificially, such as welding.

While UVC rays are usually blocked by the ozone layer, UVA and UVB rays do reach the Earth.

Prolonged exposure to UV radiation can cause:

• Photokeratitis (snow blindness): A painful, temporary “sunburn effect” on the cornea.
• Cataract (cataracts): Clouding of the eye lens, which reduces vision.
• Macular Degeneration: Irreversible retinal damage, which can lead to visual impairment.

Eye damage caused by UV radiation is irreversible, but can be prevented with the right protection.

Which employees are most at risk?

Employees who work outside or experience strong light reflections are at increased risk of eye damage caused by UV radiation. Prolonged exposure can lead to irritated eyes, headaches, and even permanent damage such as cataracts or retinal problems. In sectors such as construction, road construction and maritime industry, this risk is extra high due to the reflection of light on concrete, asphalt, water and metal surfaces. This not only makes work more tiring, but can also seriously affect vision without proper protection.

UV radiation also plays a major role in agriculture, logistics and aviation. Gardeners and agricultural workers often work without natural shade, while warehouse workers are constantly switching between indoors and outdoors, which puts extra strain on their eyes. Pilots and ground staff receive an even more intense dose of UV radiation due to the thin atmosphere and reflections on planes and asphalt. In all these sectors, good sunglasses are not a luxury, but an essential protection against eye damage.

What many people don't realize is that even on cloudy days, UV radiation is still a risk. Up to 80% of the radiation penetrates the cloud cover, so eye protection is also necessary when the sun is not directly visible.

Employees in high-risk occupations can therefore not only have eye problems on sunny days, but are at risk of damage all year round.

How do you protect employees from eye damage caused by sunlight?

A safe work environment starts with good eye protection. Prolonged exposure to UV radiation can lead to eye fatigue, headaches and even permanent damage. That is why employers in the Risk Inventory and Evaluation (RI&E)) take into account the dangers of UV radiation and take appropriate measures. If the RI&E shows that sunlight is a risk, the employer is obliged to provide prescription sunglasses. In addition, information and mandatory wearing of UV protective glasses helps to make employees aware of the importance of good eye protection.

Not every pair of sunglasses is suitable for the workplace. A good pair of sunglasses has at least one UV400 filter to block 100% of harmful radiation and must CE certified are. Tinted lenses reduce annoying glare and improve vision. For eyeglass wearers, there is a prescription sunglasses the most practical solution. This prevents the continuous change between glasses and ensures optimal vision and protection while working.

Frequently asked questions about eye protection against sunlight

How do I know if sunglasses offer good UV protection?

Note the markings UV400 and CE certification. These ensure that the glasses block 100% of the harmful UV rays.

Are prescription sunglasses necessary?

Yes, if employees wear prescription glasses, prescription sunglasses are the best solution. This prevents them from working unprotected or switching between glasses and sunglasses.

Are sunglasses mandatory under the Working Conditions Act?

As out of the RI&E it appears that UV radiation is a risk is providing prescription sunglasses or sunglasses a mandatory measure (Working conditions decree Article 5.11).

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