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Beware of eye and vision hazards in your workplace

On Behalf of | Jun 12, 2020 | Firm News

Many people take the ability to see well for granted. They also do not typically give much thought to eye injury hazards in the workplace. However, many North Carolina industries do pose a risk of suffering such injuries, which could impact a worker’s vision on a long- or short-term basis. Below are several examples of these industries.

  • Construction and carpentry
  • Manufacturing jobs
  • Vehicle maintenance and repair
  • Electrical and plumbing work
  • Jobs that require welding
  • Medical and health care industries

In the digital age, even office work poses eye injury hazards. Computer Vision Syndrome, also known as Digital Eye Strain, occurs in many office environments. The syndrome can lead to numerous conditions affecting the employee’s eyes and overall vision.

Even though you can file for workers’ compensation after suffering an occupational eye injury, it is unwise to ignore the risks. Some of the eye injuries often covered by workers’ compensation include the following.

  • Damage from exposing the eyes to chemicals
  • Foreign objects like metal and wood chips entering the eyes
  • Scrapes and cuts to the cornea
  • Burns from hot oil, infrared or ultraviolet radiation and steam

In some industries, a person may even become ill from exposure to eye hazards. For example, those working in the health care industry may be exposed to infectious diseases through blood and body fluid splatters that enter the eyes.

Some eye injuries are not difficult to identify and thus easily qualify for workers’ compensation. Victims with eye injuries and conditions that are less obvious may encounter resistance filing a workers’ compensation claim or their claim may result in a denial of benefits.

Fortunately, you can appeal a denied claim with assistance from an experienced workers’ compensation attorney. Such assistance improves your chances of success and clears the way to getting the benefits you need.