Eye Hazards in Construction
Construction work poses many eye hazards:
- Impact: Flying particles from grinding, hammering, or power tools
- Heat: Sparks from welding or cutting operations
- Chemicals: Splashes from acids, solvents, or cement
- Dust: Airborne sawdust, drywall dust, or concrete dust
- Optical Radiation: Bright light from welding or cutting
- Biological: Blood splatter or potentially infectious materials
Types of Eye Protection
Safety Glasses
- Basic protection against impact hazards
- Must have side shields for construction work
- ANSI Z87.1 marked on frame or lens
- Available with prescription lenses
- Best for: General construction work, carpentry, light grinding
Safety Goggles
- Seal completely around the eyes
- Protect against impact, dust, and chemical splashes
- Some styles can fit over prescription glasses
- Best for: Dusty environments, pouring chemicals, concrete work
Face Shields
- Protect the entire face
- Must be worn over safety glasses or goggles
- Provide extra protection from flying debris and chemicals
- Best for: Heavy grinding, chemical handling, pressure washing
Welding Helmets
- Filter radiation from welding operations
- Different shade numbers for different types of welding
- Auto-darkening options available
- Best for: Welding and cutting operations
Special Purpose Glasses
- Laser safety glasses
- UV protection glasses
- Filter lenses for specific light hazards
- Best for: Specialized tasks with specific light/radiation hazards
Selecting the Right Protection
By Task:
Carpentry/Woodworking
- Safety glasses with side shields
- Consider dust-proof goggles if generating a lot of dust
Grinding/Cutting Metal
- Safety glasses with side shields PLUS face shield
- Ensure face shield is rated for impact protection
Concrete Work
- Chemical splash goggles (when mixing)
- Face shield when pouring or handling wet concrete
Welding
- Welding helmet with proper filter lens
- Shade 10-14 for arc welding
- Shade 4-8 for gas welding/cutting
- Safety glasses for helpers or nearby workers
Nail Guns/Pneumatic Tools
- Safety glasses with side shields
- Consider full face protection for overhead work
Chemical Handling
- Chemical splash goggles
- Face shield for large volumes or hazardous chemicals
Dusty Environments
- Dust-proof goggles with indirect ventilation
- Consider goggles that seal tightly to face
Understanding Lens Markings
ANSI Z87.1 markings indicate protection levels:
- Z87: Basic impact protection
- Z87+: High impact protection
- D3: Protection from droplets and splashes
- D4: Protection from dust
- D5: Protection from fine dust
- W: Meets requirements for welding
Filter lenses are marked with shade numbers:
- 1.5-3: Viewing welding operations from a distance
- 3-5: Light cutting/brazing
- 5-8: Medium welding/cutting
- 9-14: Heavy welding/cutting
Proper Fit and Care
Proper Fit
- Eye protection should sit comfortably on the bridge of your nose
- Side shields should seal against your face
- No gaps between your face and the protection
- Should not interfere with your movements
- Adjustable straps should be secure but not too tight
Care and Maintenance
- Clean lenses daily with mild soap and water or lens wipes
- Store in a clean, dry case when not in use
- Inspect before each use for:
- Scratches or cracks in lenses
- Loose or broken frames
- Damaged straps or headbands
- Missing side shields
- Replace damaged eye protection immediately
Special Considerations
Prescription Eyewear
Options for workers who need vision correction:
- Prescription safety glasses
- Goggles that fit over regular glasses
- Insert systems for some goggles and full-face respirators
Fogging
To prevent fogging:
- Use anti-fog coatings or treatments
- Choose models with ventilation
- Wear headbands to direct sweat away from eyes
- Start work with clean, dry eyewear
Compatibility with Other PPE
Make sure your eye protection works with:
- Hard hats (some attach directly)
- Respirators (use models designed to fit together)
- Hearing protection (temple pieces may break seal of earmuffs)
First Aid for Eye Injuries
If something gets in your eye:
- Don't rub your eye
- For dust/small particles: Flush with clean water
- For embedded objects: Seek medical attention immediately, don't try to remove
- For chemical splashes: Flush with water for at least 15 minutes
- Always report eye injuries to your supervisor