Australians ignore eye safety at home
An Optometrists Association Australia survey of 1,200 people has revealed that over 70% of people do not bother to protect their eyes when doing routine tasks, repairs or improvements at home.
Australians are risking their eyesight by wearing prescription spectacles or sunglasses as a substitute for proper eye protection when carrying out ‘DIY’ activities, according to the new research.
Grinding and welding related activities are the most common eye related injuries, accounting for 29% of presentations to hospitals and general practitioners.
But 44% of all people surveyed said they wore sunglasses or prescription spectacles instead of safety goggles when welding.
Ian Bluntish, national president of Optometrists Association Australia, says Australians are underestimating the risk of eye injury when carrying out tasks such as mowing, painting, welding and pruning. Wearing spectacles or sunglasses as protection can be even more dangerous because the lens could shatter when used inappropriately.
“We urge people to prevent eye injury by wearing the right eye protection for the job,” said Mr Bluntish.
The Association has developed a fact sheet about eye safety which provides advice on the right protection. Visit www.optometrists.asn.au to download a free copy.
