Advice on the Prevention of Eye Injuries to Maintain Healthy Vision 

We are dedicated to the restoration of sight. We are also dedicated to the prevention of blinding eye conditions.  

According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, more than 1 million people suffer from eye injuries each year in the United States. The Academy also notes that 90 percent of these injuries could have been prevented if the individual had been wearing appropriate protective eyewear, and that accidental eye injury is the leading cause of vision impairment in the United States.

The Eye Bank Association of America’s (EBAA) 2005 statistical records state that 821 corneas were provided for patients in the United States who suffered from mechanical or chemical trauma to the eye. This represents approximately 2.5% of the total number of corneas provided for transplant during that year.

The following are suggestions for preventing eye injuries:

·         Safety glasses should have lenses made of polycarbonate (an especially strong, shatterproof, lightweight plastic) and be 3mm thick. A plastic or polycarbonate frame will reduce the risk of injury from the frames themselves. Frames that meet ANSI standards offer the best available protection for general spectacle wear. For maximum protection, the eyewear should fit properly and be worn securely.

·         Use proper protective eyewear when using chemicals - both at work and at home. Read instructions and labels carefully before using chemicals.

·         Wear protective eyewear when there is danger of flying objects, fumes, dust, sparks, ultraviolet and infrared radiation.

·         Wear protective eyewear when working with power equipment in the yard to avoid injury from projectile rocks or debris that can cause injury to the operator as well as to bystanders.

·         Do not allow children to ignite fireworks or stand near others who are doing so. All fireworks are potentially dangerous.

·         Students should wear protective goggles when participating in shop class and some science labs.

·         When participating in sports, use appropriate eye and head protection.

·         Only wear sunglasses with labels stating blockage of 99-100% of UV (ultraviolet) rays.

·         When an injury does occur, it is always best to have an ophthalmologist examine the eye as soon as possible. The seriousness of the injury may not be immediately obvious.

Sources: The American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) and the University if Michigan Kellogg Eye Center.