Safeguarding Vision within the Workplace

The usage of digital devices, such as individual computer systems, tablets and cell phones, continues to grow. The influence of prolonged usage can frequently be felt within the eye. Actually, simply because of extended use of those devices, close to 70% of American adults encounter some type of digital eyestrain, based on a new report in the Vision Council. Symptoms of digital eyestrain can consist of dry eyes, blurred vision and headaches.

Workers can take a couple of easy actions to assist stopping eyestrain and fatigue. The Vision Council suggests the following:

• Go to an eye physician to get a dilated eye exam to ensure you’re seeing clearly and to detect any possible vision problems.
• Move your screen 20 to 26 inches away from your eyes along with a small shift so that the monitor sits beneath eye level.
• Use a document holder placed near your computer screen. It should be close so you do not need to swing your head back and forth or continuously alter your eye concentration.
• Adjust the text size around the screen to a comfortable level.
• Alter your lighting to reduce glare and harsh reflections. Glare filters on computer screens may also help.
• Use a chair you are able to adjust.
• Select screens that may tilt and swivel. A keyboard that you could adjust can also be useful.
• The Vision Council recommends the 20-20-20 break: each 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet away.

We also strongly recommend the usage of eye protection within the workplace, particularly in industries like building, manufacturing, or any profession where eye accidents and injuries might happen. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that in 2012, there had been 20,300 recorded occupational eye injuries that resulted in days away from work.

Hugh R. Parry, president and CEO of Stop Blindness says, “By caring for our eyes at work and at home, we are able to remain safe and productive for many years to come!”