Why Eye Protection is Important When Working with Abrasives
PPE plays a crucial role in the manufacturing and abrasive industries. Wearing equipment at work helps you be ready for any dangers and gives you additional protection in case of an accident. Given the injuries that result from inadequate training or contempt for protocols, it is imperative to discuss the significance of wearing the appropriate safety gear.
Wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) helps reduce the risk of accidents and injuries in dangerous work settings. PPE acts as a tangible barrier to keep workers safe from potential risks related to using abrasive wheels. Health and safety hazards are common in many industries, particularly manufacturing. Long weeks and shifts can make it hard to control risks, so having extra protection can really help.
The most crucial piece of equipment on the job is eye protection. Over 2,000 persons suffer eye injuries at work, the majority of which might have been prevented with the proper eye protection. Hazards at practically every job could result in harm, like temporary or permanent eyesight loss. Examples include chemicals, flying debris, and improperly operated grinders.
This blog will primarily discuss the importance of eye protective equipment when working with abrasives.
WHY EYE PROTECTION IS NECESSARY?
Using protective eyewear can avoid many risks that might result in eye injury. Bright lights, abrasive materials, and flying objects are examples of potential hazards. Eye protection is also crucial when employees must use heavy equipment or tools at work.
The Price of Ineffective Eye Protection
In the United States, there are over 2,000 eye-related workplace injuries per day. Typical injuries consist of:
- Eye scraping
- Penetration
- Burns caused by heat
- Burns from chemicals
Approximately 118,000 ER visits were caused by occupational eye injuries in 2019. Each episode of occupational eyesight loss can cost over $150,000, according to data from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration. Businesses must adhere to specific guidelines for protective eyewear in order to prevent and lessen the damage and financial burden of eye-related catastrophes.
RULES REGARDING THE USE OF PROTECTIVE EYEWEAR AT WORK
OSHA mandates that employees wear safety glasses when they are exposed to the following possible risks:
- Flying particles
- Molten metal
- Caustic liquids
- Chemical gasses
- Radiation from harmful light
-
Bodily fluids, such as blood
If these risks are present, safety protective eyewear should follow the American National Standard for Occupational and Educational Personal Eye and Face Protection Devices. These guidelines specify the kinds of glasses, face shields, high-impact eyewear, and shade numbers that must be used in specific work environments.
CHOOSING THE RIGHT PROTECTIVE EYEWEAR
There are distinct requirements for the construction, general industry, maritime, and healthcare sectors. The inherent risks present in each industry determine the kind of eye protection that is necessary.
- Side Shields/ Glasses – If there are flying items or hazardous particles at work, protective eyewear needs to have side shields. Shields are frequently used by workers at construction sites. A vital component of eye protection for abrasive operations is safety glasses. They are made to offer minimal coverage and protection from flying particles, trash, and small objects. High impact resistance and optical clarity are provided by the sturdy frames and lenses of safety glasses, which are composed of materials like polycarbonate. Side shields are another characteristic of some safety glasses that offer extra defense against external threats. For the majority of abrasive wheel applications where there is a moderate risk of eye injury, safety glasses are appropriate since they are lightweight and comfortable to wear.
- Safety Goggles – Workers are required to wear goggles and glasses when handling hazardous chemicals. Compared to safety glasses, safety goggles provide better protection, especially against potential threats that could enter from the top, bottom, or sides of the eyewear. They act as a barrier around the eyes, keeping liquids, dust, and particles from entering from different directions. Indirect ventilation and a flexible frame reduce fogging while preserving airflow in safety goggles. They work well in more demanding abrasive wheel operations when there is a greater chance of more enormous projectiles, chemical exposure, or splashes.
- Shade Level – Helmets, goggles, face shields, and tinted safety glasses are examples of appropriate protective equipment for personnel who do welding or work with lasers and fiber optics. A Z87 stamp is usually found on industrial eyewear that complies with ANSI Z87 requirements. Z87+-marked eyewear is resistant to high impact.
- Face Shields – They offer the highest level of protection against flying debris, sparks, and chemical splashes by completely covering the face and neck region. They are composed of a transparent visor supported by a helmet frame and made of impact-resistant materials like acrylic or polycarbonate. Face shields are perfect for heavy-duty cutting, abrasive wheel operations with big wheels, and other jobs where there is a significant chance of severe facial injury. They can also be worn over safety glasses.
THE DECREASE IN INJURIES ASSOCIATED WITH THE EYE
According to safety experts, 90% of eye-related injuries can be avoided with the proper eyewear. To make sure they have developed the most effective safety program for their workplaces, employers should conduct regular assessments. The following should be included in evaluations:
- Risk assessment for dangers in the workplace
- Choosing the proper eye protection for the risks
- Evaluation of eyewear ratings
- Employee education regarding appropriate wear and usage
- Signage reminding people to wear eyewear
- Warning signs for dangerous locations
These fundamental procedures can significantly enhance a workplace's safety atmosphere. Employers should update their safety programs to stay in compliance with the most recent ANSI standards.