Join our New York construction accident lawyers as we examine why these particles are dangerous and explore the best strategies for shielding workers from harmful exposures.
How flying particles cause injuries
Various activities on construction sites, such as cutting, grinding, sanding, and demolition, can propel small particles into the air. These particles can be made of wood, metal, glass, concrete, or other materials commonly found on construction sites. These particles can strike a worker’s eyes without adequate eye protection, leading to scratches, punctures, or more severe ocular damage.
Preventing construction eye injuries
Importance of protective eyewear
The simplest and most effective way to prevent eye injuries from flying particles is by using appropriate safety eyewear. Safety glasses with side shields, goggles, and face shields are crucial protective barriers that can significantly reduce the incidence of eye injuries. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) mandates the use of eye and face protection whenever there is a reasonable probability of injury that could be prevented by such equipment.
Training and awareness
Another key factor in preventing construction eye injuries is educating workers about the risks and the importance of consistently wearing eye protection. Regular safety training sessions should include information on the types of eye protection suitable for various tasks, how to wear and care for the protective gear properly, and the immediate steps to take if an eye injury occurs.
Common types of eye injuries on construction sites
Corneal abrasions
These occur when the cornea, the clear surface that covers the front of the eye, is scratched by debris, such as metal filings, wood shavings, or even a stray piece of wire. Corneal abrasions are painful and can cause redness, watering, sensitivity to light, and a gritty feeling in the eye. They can lead to infections or more severe vision problems if not properly treated.
Chemical burns
Many construction sites use chemicals that can be hazardous if they come into contact with the eyes. Alkaline substances like lime, cement, or acids used in various industrial processes can cause chemical eye burns, leading to severe damage if not washed out immediately.
Penetration or puncture wounds
More severe than abrasions, penetration or puncture wounds occur when objects like nails, staples, or metal shards penetrate the eye’s outer layer and enter the inner parts. These injuries are extremely serious and can lead to permanent vision loss or loss of the eye if not addressed urgently.
Welding flash burns
Also known as “arc eye,” flash burns occur when the eyes are exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light from welding torches without adequate protection. This exposure can cause a painful inflammation of the cornea, which might feel like having sand in the eyes.
UV radiation exposure
Long-term exposure to UV radiation without proper eye protection can lead to serious eye conditions like cataracts or even eye cancer. Workers on construction sites are often exposed to direct sunlight, which can be just as harmful to the eyes as artificial UV sources.
Response and first aid for eye injuries
Quick response to any eye injury is crucial. Construction workers should be trained in basic first aid for eye injuries, including:
- Not touching or rubbing the injured eye can exacerbate the injury.
- Flushing the eye with clean water or saline solution if particles are present.
- Seeking immediate professional medical evaluation, especially if the injury is severe.
Legal considerations and New York regulations
In New York, as in other states, employers must comply with federal OSHA standards and any state-specific safety regulations that apply to eye safety on construction sites. Employers who fail to provide adequate eye protection or fail to enforce safety regulations can face penalties and are more likely to experience costly workplace injuries.
For more detailed guidelines and legal standards regarding workplace safety and eye protection on construction sites in New York, you can refer to the New York State Department of Labor Division of Safety and Health.
Injured on a construction site? Call us.
By implementing rigorous safety measures and ensuring compliance with legal safety standards, construction sites can become safer environments, significantly reducing the risk of eye injuries among workers.
If you or a loved one was hurt on a construction site, call The Weinstein Law Group at (212) 741-3800 today.
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Steven M. Weinstein