Occupational eye injuries: A continuing problem

Abstract

Background: Ocular trauma is a worldwide cause of visual morbidity, a significant proportion of which occurs in the workplace. This is largely preventable with the use of protective eyewear and strict compliance. Aim: To analyse the type of occupational eye injuries that occur and to document the use of eye protection in patients presenting to a UK district general hospital. Methods: A pilot retrospective case note analysis of all ocular injuries seen in one calendar month was performed. A prospective survey of consecutive occupational ocular injuries presenting to this district general accident and emergency (A&E) department over a 2-month period was then carried out. Demographics, aetiology, eye protection usage and clinical details were recorded and analysed. Results: Of all eye patients attending this A&E, 31% (87/283) were due to occupational eye injuries. Of 55 prospectively reviewed patients with occupational eye injuries, the majority had minor injuries. Of the cases where eye protection was recorded, 56% (18/32) were not wearing any protection and 44% (14/32) wore eye protection at the time of injury. Conclusions: Occupational eye injuries are a commonly seen ocular complaint in the A&E department. Provision of appropriate eyewear protection and worker education is required to minimize the incidence of ocular injury in the workplace. © The Author 2009. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the Society of Occupational Medicine. All rights reserved.