March is Workplace Eye Wellness Awareness Month
Originally published by Vitreoretinal Consultants of NY
As March begins, it's important to pay attention to our eye health, particularly in the workplace. Workplace Eye Wellness Awareness Month provides a timely reminder for both employers and employees to prioritize vision protection. Let's take a look at some essential practices to keep our eyes healthy while working:
1) Wear Certified Eye Protection
Every year, around 25,000 Americans have to go to the emergency room because of eye injuries caused at their place of work. To avoid such incidents, it is essential to make sure that you and your colleagues wear eye protection that is certified and approved. Whether you work with tools, chemicals, or screens, using the appropriate eyewear can help significantly in protecting your vision.
2) Combat Digital Eye Strain
In today's digital age, many of us spend hours staring at screens and handheld devices. Whether you're working from home or in an office, it's important to take breaks and adopt good habits to reduce digital eye strain.
- Practice the 20-20-20 Rule: Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and focus on something 20 feet away. This helps relax your eye muscles.
- Position your monitor at eye level and about 20 inches away from your eyes for proper screen setup. Adjust the brightness and contrast to reduce glare.
- Blink regularly to keep your eyes moist and prevent dryness. If possible, add humidity to your workspace and take outdoor breaks to breathe in fresh air and focus on something in the distance.
3) Adjust Lighting Conditions
It is important to have proper lighting to ensure eye comfort and safety. Here are some tips to follow:
It's recommended to work near a window to benefit from natural light. This can help reduce eye strain and boost productivity. It's also a mood booster too.
Task Lighting: Use specific lighting for reading, writing, drawing or other activities. Avoid harsh overhead lights that cause glare.
4) Stay Hydrated:
Maintaining adequate hydration is crucial for the overall health of your body, including your eyes. When you don't drink enough water, your eyes can become dehydrated, which can lead to a range of uncomfortable symptoms such as dryness, irritation, and itchiness. Therefore, it is highly recommended to drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your eyes well-hydrated and prevent any discomfort or vision problems.
5) Get Regular Eye Exams:
It's important to take care of your eyesight! Make sure to schedule regular eye exams at your local VRCNY location. Early detection of eye conditions can help prevent long-term damage.
Remember, maintaining healthy eyes can improve your overall well-being and productivity. This March, let's make Workplace Eye Wellness a top priority!
Please feel free to share this information with your colleagues and friends. Together, we can create a safer and healthier work environment for everyone!