EAR & EYE PROTECTION DON’T LOSE FOCUS


A recent study from Slater and Gordon revealed that 40% of construction workers sometimes feel unsafe on site. Another survey, from Specsavers Corporate Eyecare, confirms that almost 25% of tradespeople have had an accident at work, and more than a quarter don’t protect their eyes on-site.


HIGH RISK, HIGH REWARD? NOT REALLY Construction is among the most hazardous sectors, with dangers at every corner. From working at height to handling heavy objects, machinery, vehicles, and dangerous materials – professionals must always exercise caution. Back in the day, a hi-vis and hard hat may have been considered enough, but the requirements have now expanded to include eye and ear protection along with specialised gloves, footwear and face masks. Suitable PPE is not only crucial but also a legal mandate.


Focusing specifically on eyes, construction sites pose various hazards such as falling debris, wood and metal dust, splinters, sparks, and solvents. One in three individuals knows someone who has sustained an eye injury at work – a worrying statistic when you consider that without clear vision, professionals cannot effectively perform their duties or identify potential risks of injury to themselves or others.


INTERNAL MEASURES - A KEY FOCUS FOR EMPLOYERS


The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) plays a crucial role in enforcing necessary workplace safety measures and ensures compliance by conducting both planned


Discussing workers’ overall safety, Dona Mclafferty, Corporate Account Manager (Safety Eyewear) from Specsavers, stresses the importance of construction employees looking after the most valuable tool in their box – their eyesight.


and unplanned inspections to verify safe operations. However, recent data shows that the number of surprise HSE inspections in the construction industry has plummeted to a record low, decreasing by 32% over the past decade.


These potentially life-saving inspections are vital to uphold the highest of safety standards and prevent on-site accidents. But ultimately, it is the responsibility of employers to safeguard their workers and adhere to health and safety regulations – particularly when regular inspections are not guaranteed to keep things in check.


Employers must ensure that adequate PPE is provided to staff, including sturdy safety glasses that offer clear vision while protecting workers’ eyes from splinters, dust, and falling objects. High-quality goggles with anti-fog ventilation and scratch-resistant coatings provide protection and maintain good vision in all environments. Safety glasses featuring side shields are also a good option, offering suitable protection when the entire eye area does not need to be covered.


A GOOD VISION FOR EMPLOYEE PROTECTION Nearly half of the tradespeople surveyed by Specsavers reported needing prescription lenses to see, but 60% of these workers end up using just their everyday prescription glasses on the job. These glasses are without any protective features, leaving eyes exposed to hazards.


The research also revealed that 20% of trade workers were unaware of prescription safety glasses, that allow them to combine safety and prescription in one solution. These safety glasses with prescription, scratch-resistant lenses, UV protection and durable frame materials are strongly recommended in place of employees' everyday spectacles.


There is no need to make a choice between vision and protection – goggles or glasses. Doubling up by wearing goggles over glasses, or worse, not wearing any eye protection at all is both dangerous and unnecessary given the specialist PPE available today.


It is high time for the construction industry to start prioritising eye health on-site. With the correct equipment and a commitment to maintaining well- designed safety protocols, employers can ensure that all construction sites operate safely and efficiently, while keeping tradespeople’s vision a priority. Ensuring proper eyecare protection will lead to a safer and more productive workforce, a key component in strengthening the sector and supporting growth after recent turbulent times.


www.specsavers.co.uk/corporate/safety-eyewear 22 www.tomorrowshs.com


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