Most people don't know that each day, more than 2,000 eye-related injuries are reported to occur in the workplace. With this staggering statistic accompanies monetary losses of more than 300 million annually, directly associated with workers compensation, lost production time and medical expenses. However, anyone who has experienced an eye injury knows that no amount of money can compensate for the loss of eyesight.
Not wearing any form of eye protection is the most common root cause of work-related eye injuries. Most injuries are due to flying objects and particles and secondly, due to chemical related splashes. Businesses and employees should understand the differences between safety glasses, which are acceptable protection against flying debris, and chemical and vapor related protection. In fact, OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) requires that all employers put their employees' safety first and foremost, providing adequate facial and eye protection.
Safety goggles should have a fit snug, but not impair or inhibit vision or movement. They should be durable, easy to sanitize regularly and comfortable to wear for long periods of time. Goggles help protect from specific work-related hazards, helping protect not only the eyes but also the delicate facial tissues surrounding the eyes.
There are three primary types of safety goggles on the market, which includes:
- Non-Vented Goggles – Offering no venting, these only protect against vapors, liquid, dust and mist. This type of goggle is not gas-proof.
- Direct Vented Goggles – These allow air to flow from the surrounding work environment into the goggle. These are often used when presented with the possibility of impact hazards and do not offer sufficient protection against vapor or splash hazards.
- Indirect Vented Goggles – These provide protection via a covered or hooded vent that allows air to move into the goggles, but prevents any liquids from entering. These are appropriate when presented with possible chemical hazards.
Face shields are also an excellent form of secondary protection, helping further protect the eyes and face from any accidents, splashes and debris.
Goggles should be cleaned regularly. Since many safety goggles offer anti-fog lenses, users must be careful not to scratch of damage the lens coating. Using a moistened hand towel, simply wipe and rinse any debris from the glasses and allow them to dry naturally.
Olympic Eyewear specializes in selling a variety of wholesale sunglasses, including a variety of safety goggles. Sold as bulk sunglasses at discounted prices, Olympic Eyewear helps employers spend less money on overhead, while continually ensuring that all employers are adequately protected.