Back injuries, broken bones and shoulder strain may be familiar injuries to many New York workers. Those in the construction industry are no strangers to work injuries that can alter a person’s life in a split second. However, injuries that do not get much press are those related to the eyes. Eye injuries in the workplace affect about 2,000 workers a year and are almost entirely preventable.
Office workers see the majority of eye strain that can cause fatigue, headaches and vision problems. Keeping one’s computer about 25 inches away may reduce that strain and allow the eyes to blink at a more normal rate, producing more adequate lubrication. Glare from bright screens or insufficient office lighting can also damage one’s eyes.
Construction workers, miners and those in the manufacturing industries make up 40 percent of those who suffer from eye injuries. These injuries are typically due to falling objects, exposure to chemicals, flying debris and excessive light. If a worker’s job is near radiation welding, lasers, chemicals or fiber optics, her or she is required by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration to wear special eye protection.
Ninety percent of work injuries involving the eyes can be prevented. However, if someone suffers a trauma or strain to the eyes in the course of job-related duties, that worker is eligible for workers’ compensation to cover medical costs and lost wages. To ensure they receive the maximum compensation they are due for any current or future medical expenses related to the eye injury, many New York workers seek the advice and guidance of an attorney who will handle the complicated process of filing and pursuing the workers’ compensation claim.
Source: facilityexecutive.com, “Eye Protection Can Prevent 90 Percent Of Work-Related Eye Injuries“, Mary Ellen McCandless, Feb. 28, 2017