Eye Injury First Aid

Each day 2000 U.S. Workers have job related eye injuries that require medical attention with more than 100 of these injuries resulting in one or more days of lost work.

90 percent of all workplace eye injuries are preventable with the use of proper eyewear and safety measures.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) found that almost 95 % of eye injuries resulted from flying or falling objects stricking the eye.

Eye injuries can be found in nearly every industry but BLS reported that more than 40 percent of injuries occured among craft workers, like carpenters and plumbers.

Eye shoul be maked with ANSI Z87 in all instances except for laser light hazards.

The most dangerous type of chemical burn to the eye is an acid (pH<7) burn.

The cornea generally heals within 1-2 days following a welding flash burn.

Per POM Inc. protocol, when anesthetic is required, 1-2 drops of Tetracaine should applied to affected eye as often as necessary.

Treatment for chemical burn to the eyes should begin with flushing the eyes immediatley for at least 30 minutes.

When staining the eye, touch the piece of blotting paper directly to the cornea for best results.

Always attempt to remove any penetrating or intraocular foreign body from the eye before seeking any futher medical treatment.

Prevent pressure against foreign body by dressing the area with sterile gauze to support the object.

Apply sterile dressing and cold compress for 15 minute periods for treating a laceration of the eyelid.

Infectious diseases and infections may be contracted via ocular exposure.

Keep patient in upright position when caring for penetrating eye injuries.