March is Workplace Eye Wellness Month: 10 Tips for Protecting Your Vision at Work
March is Workplace Eye Wellness Month! The American Academy of Ophthalmology dedicated this month to raising awareness about vision and eye health protection at work. This initiative isn’t just about preventing discomfort. It’s about protecting your vision and reducing the risk of serious injuries.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2020 alone, over 18,300 work-related eye injuries led to workers visiting the ER for Eyecare services. Due to their eye injuries, they had to miss at least one day of work. The workers got these injuries due to contact with objects or equipment. That’s why AAO promotes eye safety awareness during Workplace Eye Wellness Month to ensure a healthier, safer work environment for everyone.
They highlight how significant eye health is and we can reduce these incidents by wearing eye protection gear.
The Problem: Digital Eye Strain and Other Workplace Eye Hazards
Before we start to understand the eye care tips to protect our vision, we first need to break down the common eye risks that we face in the workplace. Let’s dig into it.
Digital Eye Strain:
Let’s start with the sedentary jobs. As we know in this digital era, we rely on digital screens most of the time. An average employee spends almost 8-9 hours on the screen, leading to a condition called digital eye strain. You can develop digital strain, aka, computer vision syndrome when you intensely focus and concentrate on the screen while working. Common symptoms of digital eye strain include:
- Blurred vision
- Dry eyes
- Headaches
- Eye fatigue
- Neck and shoulder pain
Beyond Digital Screens:
Digital screens aren’t the only risk in the workplace. If you are a construction worker or work in the chemical industry, you might encounter other risks, like:
- Dust: Tiny particles suspended in the air can irritate and scratch the cornea.
- Chemicals: Splashes or fumes from certain chemicals can damage the eyes.
- Bright Lights: Glare from overhead lighting or welding torches can cause discomfort and strain.
These hazards can all lead to eye irritation, inflammation, and even permanent vision loss.
The Solution: 10 Tips for Healthy Eyes at Work
Now that we know the problems or risks that our eyes may face, here are 10 key practices to keep your eyes feeling refreshed:
1. Give Your Eyes a Break: The 20-20-20 Rule
This is a simple yet effective eye care strategy that can help you reduce eye strain. The 20-20-20 rule goes like this:
Every 20 minutes, look away from your screen for 20 seconds at something 20 feet away.
With this rule’s help, you can refocus your eyes on a distant object. This refocus allows the eyes to relax and reduce eye strain.
2. Adjust Your Screen Settings for Comfort
Adjusting your screen settings can make a big difference in how your eyes feel. Here’s what you can adjust:
- Brightness: Usually people choose a brighter screen, as it seems sharper. But a brighter screen can lead to eye fatigue. So reduce your screen brightness to ensure your eyes are comfortable while working on it.
- Contrast: Adjust the contrast between the text and background. It will help you enjoy a better readability experience.
- Text Size: Did you know that small text sizes can stress your eyes and cause them pain and vision issues? To avoid this, set the text size large enough to read comfortably without stressing your eyes.
By adjusting these settings, you can create a more eye-friendly viewing experience.
3. Optimize Your Workstation Setting
The physical setup of your workspace plays a crucial role in eye comfort. Here’s what to consider:
- Screen Positioning: Did you know, you should set your screen to an arm’s length away and slightly below eye level? This setting can help you reduce the need to tilt your head upward while working.
- Chair Height and Posture: The second sitting thing you should keep in mind is your chair’s height. You need to adjust the height so that you can place your feet flat on the floor and bend the knees at a 90-degree angle. It will not only help you maintain your posture but also prevent hunching over your screen, which can cause extra strain on your eyes and neck.
4. Fight Dry Eyes: Blink Often and Consider Artificial Tears
While working on the screen, it is essential to keep your eyes lubricated. To do that blink your eyes often. As we know, we tend to blink less frequently while working on the digital screens. It can lead your eyes to dry eyes, which can affect your eye health. So make sure you blink your eyes in a timely to maintain your eye health.
5. Reduce Glare from Lights and Screens
Did you know that glare from overhead lights or reflective surfaces can cause eye strain? Here are ways to minimize glare:
- Anti-Glare Screen Protector: You can cover your screen with an anti-glare screen protector. It will minimize glare while you are on screen.
- Adjust Lighting: You can adjust your workplace lighting to reduce glare. You can also turn off some overhead lights or reposition your desk to avoid direct light sources.
6. Talk to Our Doctor About Computer Glasses
You can protect your eyes from the harmful rays of the screen with the help of computer glasses. These glasses are designed to protect your eyes from eye strain while working on the screen.
Usually, computer glasses have a slight magnification or a blue light filter to protect your eyes from blue light that could harm your eyes. But remember, consult an eye care specialist, like Dr. Antoine Copty at Eyes on Brickell, to see if computer glasses could be a good fit for you. If you want to know more about computer glasses and how they can benefit you, read Benefits And Facts About Blue Light Blocking Glasses Technology.
Also Read: Common Signs Indicating You Probably Need Eyeglasses
7. Stay Hydrated!
Dehydration can contribute to dry eyes. Make sure you drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your body and eyes well-hydrated. Aim for eight glasses of water daily, adjusting based on your activity level and climate.
8. Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle
A healthy lifestyle goes a long way in protecting your overall health, including your eyes. Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats. These foods provide essential nutrients that contribute to good eye health. Additionally, prioritize getting a good night’s sleep to allow your body, including your eyes, to rest and recharge.
9. Schedule A Personalized Eye Exam With Eyes on Brickell
Timely eye exams are vital for maintaining good eye health. Even though you do not experience any eye issues, get your eyes checked frequently. It will help your doctor detect potential issues early on, like nearsightedness, farsightedness, or even eye diseases like glaucoma. So make sure you schedule a comprehensive eye exam at Eyes on Brickell to get your eyes checked by one of the best eye care specialists in Miami at least once a year.
10. Know Your Workplace Eye Safety Regulations
If your job involves working in hazardous environments, there might be specific workplace eye safety protocols you need to follow. It could include wearing safety glasses or goggles to protect your eyes from dust, chemicals, or flying debris. Always prioritize safety and follow the recommended eye protection measures in your workplace.
Also read: https://www.eyesonbrickell.com/5-reasons-why-you-should-wear-sunglasses/
Conclusion
March is Workplace Eye Wellness Month, a timely reminder to prioritize eye health and safety on the job. As we’ve seen, neglecting eye care can lead to discomfort like digital eye strain or even serious injuries in hazardous workplaces. By following these simple tips, you can significantly reduce your risk and ensure a healthier, more productive workday.
Remember, your eyes are precious windows to the world. Taking care of them at work is an investment in your overall well-being. Incorporate these practices into your daily routine, and you’ll be well on your way to sharper vision, greater comfort, and a more enjoyable work experience.
Furthermore, if you want to keep your eyes protected from digital eye strain or other potential eye problems, you can visit us at Eyes on Brickell. Led by Dr Antoine Copty, we are among the leading eye clinics in Miami, offering quality eye care solutions. Book an appointment today!
