March is Work Safety Eye Wellness Month: Protect Your Eyes at Work

As we celebrate Work Safety Eye Wellness Month this March, it's a perfect opportunity to shed light on the importance of eye care in the workplace. Our eyes are our windows to the world, yet they are often overlooked when it comes to occupational health. Whether you're in an office setting, working with machinery, or spending long hours in front of a computer, your eye health should be a top priority.

Why Eye Health Matters at Work

The average worker spends hours each day focusing on tasks that can put strain on their eyes (1). From staring at computer screens to handling equipment, our eyes are constantly in use. Over time, this can lead to discomfort, fatigue, and even long-term damage if not properly managed (1).

Some common workplace eye health concerns include:

• Digital Eye Strain (DES): Spending hours in front of a screen can cause dry eyes, blurred vision, and headaches. This is often referred to as "computer vision syndrome" (2). Read more about DES here.
• Glare and Lighting: Poor lighting conditions, such as excessive glare from windows or overhead lights, can cause eye strain and discomfort (2).
• Injury Risk: If you work in an environment with potential hazards (e.g., construction sites, labs, factories), your eyes may be at risk of injury from flying debris or chemicals (3).

Protecting Your Eyes at Work

1. Adopt the 20-20-20 Rule: If your job requires long hours in front of a screen, follow the 20-20-20 rule. Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet away. This will help reduce eye strain and give your eyes a chance to rest (2).
2. Ergonomic Setup: Whether you're working at a desk or handling machinery, ensure your workspace is ergonomically friendly. Keep your monitor at eye level and adjust lighting to minimize glare (2).
3. Wear Protective Eyewear: In high-risk environments, wearing the proper protective eyewear is essential. Safety goggles or face shields can protect against flying debris, chemicals, and other hazards (3). Make sure to choose eyewear that fits comfortably and provides clear visibility.
4. Blinking More: Dry eyes are a common issue in the workplace, especially in environments with air conditioning or heating. Make a habit of blinking or using prophylactic lubricating drops more often to keep your eyes from drying causing symptoms of grittiness and pain (2). Find eye drops at Eye Solutions here.
5. Regular Eye Exams: Regular eye exams are essential for maintaining optimal eye health. An eye care professional can detect early signs of vision problems or eye disease before they become more serious issues (2). Ask one of our optometrists about anti fatigue lenses, your eye muscles may be struggling even if your vision is not.

Your Eye Health, Your Future

Your eyes are invaluable assets — treat them with care. By making small adjustments in your work routine and incorporating eye safety into your daily habits, you can ensure long-term eye health and comfort. This March, take the time to prioritize your eye wellness at work. Whether

it’s through ergonomic changes, protective eyewear, or a routine eye exam, your vision deserves the attention it needs.

Book your eye exam today!

Work Safety Eye Wellness Month is the perfect time to evaluate your eye care habits and make improvements that benefit your long-term health. Remember, prevention is key, and by staying proactive, you can maintain clear, comfortable vision for years to come. To book an appointment, click here.

References

1. Mataftsi A, Seliniotaki AK, Moutzouri S, Prousali E, Darusman KR, Adio AO, et al. Digital eye strain in young screen users: A systematic review. Preventive Medicine. 2023;170:107493.
2. Kaur K, Gurnani B, Nayak S, Deori N, Kaur S, Jethani J, et al. Digital Eye Strain- A Comprehensive Review. Ophthalmol Ther. 2022;11(5):1655-80.
3. Camodeca AJ AE. Corneal Foreign Body. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; [Updated 2025 Jan 22].

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