Eye Safety at Home

Most eye injuries in the home can be prevented by taking simple precautions. Many home maintenance or DIY projects require eye protection.

The most common causes of eye injuries are:

• Impact
• Dust
• Chemicals
• Heat
• Visible radiation
• Ultraviolet radiation

Eye safety around the house

• When necessary call in an expert with the appropriate skills and protection.
• If doing the job yourself, investigate ways to reduce the risk of eye damage.
• Take special care when using cleaning products or harsh chemicals.
• Wear safety goggles or a face shield when using powerful chemicals to protect your eyes from splashes and fumes.

Eye safety around the garden

• Pick up stones and twigs before mowing the lawn
• Keep others away from the mowing area
• Wear safety glasses or goggles especially when chopping or splitting wood, trimming bushes and trees, or using whipper snippers.
• Be careful when using octopus straps. Pull the strap to the side of the body rather than towards the face.

Eye safety in the workshop and for DIY projects

• Always wear goggles or safety glasses when appropriate, preferably rated medium impact.
• Read the instructions for all tools and chemicals before use.
• Keep all tools and power equipment in good repair.
• Extinguish cigarettes or matches before working around flammable material or opening the bonnet of a car.
• Always wear eye protection when sawing, hammer.