Optometrists have safer workplaces in sight
A workplace eye safety campaign, titled ‘Eye accidents change your life forever’, urges businesses to conduct a workplace vision screening with one of 600 optometrists who have joined an initiative by the Optometrists Association Australia and HOYA Lens Australia to reduce workplace eye injuries.
According to the report ‘Epidemiology of ocular trauma in Australia’, 60% of all eye injuries happen at work and most occur within the construction, manufacturing, agriculture, forestry, fishing and mining industries.
“Most eye injuries at work can be prevented with simple precautions and by ensuring employees have appropriate eye protection,” said Optometrists Association Professional Services Manager, Shirley Loh. “Through workplace vision screenings, businesses have the opportunity to engage with local optometrists and get professional advice and guidance to help ensure they are aware of their responsibilities in eye safety.
“The process involves identifying and analysing visual hazards and determining ways to improve eye comfort in specific work settings.”
The comprehensive workplace eye safety campaign encourages optometrists to work with occupational health and safety personnel in workplaces to develop appropriate eye safety procedures and policy.
Optometrists can assist employees with prescription and non-prescription safety glasses and other protectors, and help ensure eyewear fits properly and comfortably. The campaign also provides businesses with a range of materials, including posters and brochures, to help promote continuity in compliance.
Brad Bairstow, HOYA Lens Australia’s Sales and Marketing Director, added: “Occupational health and safety awareness is growing considerably in the community and we see our alliance with Optometrists Association as a key component in ensuring our industry is well educated in the application of safety eyewear.”
For more information on the ‘Eye accidents change your life forever’ campaign, visit: www.optometrists.asn.au/eyesafety.
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