This month’s health and safety focus is on the protection of your sight which is a topic close to me as I have personally experienced difficulties with my vision.
Eye injuries include everything from painful corneal abrasions, to chemical splashes or punctures to the eye that can cause permanent vision loss. It only takes a second to have permanent eye sight loss. Wearing appropriate PPE is essential. Below are some practical tips to follow:
- Provide effective lights and handrails to improve safety on stairs and reduce the risk of falls.
- Never mix cleaning agents. Read and follow all manufacturer instructions and warning labels.
- Wear safety glasses with side protection or dust goggles to protect against flying particles, and chemical goggles to guard against exposure to fertilizers and pesticides.
- If you wear prescription glasses, many safety glasses or goggles will fit over your regular glasses. Regular eyeglasses do not always provide enough protection and may even cause further injury upon impact.
- Inspect and remove debris from lawns before mowing. Make sure others in the yard are wearing eye protection as well as bystanders can be hit by flying debris.
- Keep paints, pesticides, fertilizers, and similar products properly stored in a secure area. Read and follow all product instructions.
- Keep tools in good condition; damaged tools should be repaired or replaced.
- Welding or brazing requires special safety goggles or helmets. Consult your equipment instruction or supplier for the proper protection.
If you are worried about any items or processes you have that might be unsafe, make sure you get professional advice.
Saoirse Nesbit
Director Fire Rescue and First Response Ltd
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