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Write a toolbox talk on EYE PROTECTION

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Published by SALUS

Eye Protection Requirements and PPE Safety Procedures =====================================================

Date: 2026-08-10

Duration: \[DURATION] minutes

Presenter: \[PRESENTER NAME]

Location: \[LOCATION]

Objective

To reinforce workplace eye and face protection requirements, including hazard assessment, selection and proper use of ANSI Z87\.1-compliant safety glasses, goggles, and face shields, along with inspection, maintenance, training, and emergency response practices that help prevent eye injuries and vision loss.

Introduction

Eye injuries are among the most preventable workplace injuries, yet they can happen in a split second and cause permanent vision loss. Common tasks such as grinding, drilling, hammering, cutting, sanding, welding, and handling chemicals can expose workers to flying particles, dust, splashes, hot sparks, and harmful radiation. OSHA requires employers to ensure that affected employees use appropriate eye or face protection when exposed to these hazards. The goal of this toolbox talk is to help workers recognize eye hazards early, choose the correct protection, and use PPE consistently and correctly every time.

Presenter Note: Open by asking workers where eye hazards exist in their daily tasks. Emphasize that eye protection is not optional when hazards are present and that the right PPE must match the hazard.

Key Points

  • 1\. Start with a hazard assessment before selecting eye protection: A proper hazard assessment is the foundation of eye safety. Identify whether the task creates flying particles, dust, chemical splashes, hot sparks, molten metal, UV radiation, or glare. The protection selected must match the hazard level and the work environment. Multiple hazards may exist at the same time, so the highest level of protection needed for any one hazard should be provided. [2]

[9]

  • Review the task, tools, materials, and nearby work activities.
  • Consider bystander exposure, not just the person performing the task.
  • Reassess the hazard if the work changes or new materials are introduced.
  • 2\. Use ANSI Z87\.1-compliant safety glasses for impact hazards: Safety glasses are the most common form of eye protection for impact-related tasks. They should have impact-resistant lenses, safety-rated frames, and side protection. For workplace use, safety eyewear must comply with ANSI Z87\.1, and marked impact protection such as Z87\+ is an indicator of suitable protection for many impact hazards. Prescription glasses alone are not a substitute unless they are specifically designed and marked as protective eyewear. [3]

[5]

  • Wear side shields whenever flying particles can approach from the side.
  • Choose prescription safety glasses or over-glasses protection when corrective lenses are needed.
  • Replace eyewear that is cracked, scratched, loose, or damaged.
  • 3\. Match goggles to dust, splash, and chemical exposure: Goggles provide a tighter seal around the eyes than safety glasses and are the preferred choice when dust, irritating mists, or chemical splashes are present. Vented goggles may be appropriate for dust, while non-vented or chemical goggles are better for liquid splash hazards. Goggles protect the eyes and eye socket, but they do not protect the rest of the face, so additional protection may still be needed. [3]

[6]

  • Use tight-fitting goggles when particles can enter around the frame of safety glasses.
  • Select chemical goggles for corrosive liquids, solvents, or cleaning chemicals.
  • Ensure goggles fit snugly and do not interfere with other PPE.
  • 4\. Wear face shields only as secondary protection: Face shields protect the face from splashes, sprays, flying debris, and hot material, but they do not replace safety glasses or goggles. A face shield must always be worn over primary eye protection. For better coverage, choose a shield with crown and chin protection and wraparound coverage that reduces the chance of material reaching the eyes around the edges. [1]

[4]

  • Never rely on a face shield alone for impact protection.
  • Use face shields with safety glasses or goggles underneath.
  • Select the shield style based on the hazard, such as splash, heat, or glare.
  • 5\. Training, inspection, and maintenance are part of the control system: Eye protection only works when it is selected correctly, worn correctly, and kept in serviceable condition. Workers must be trained to recognize when PPE is needed, how to put it on and adjust it, its limitations, and how to care for it. Inspect eyewear before each use for cracks, broken frames, damaged lenses, loose straps, fogging issues, or worn components. Clean and store PPE properly so it remains effective and comfortable. [8]

[12]

  • Inspect lenses, frames, straps, and seals before each shift.
  • Clean eyewear according to manufacturer instructions.
  • Remove damaged PPE from service immediately and replace it.

Hazard Identification

The following hazards are commonly associated with eye and face injuries in construction, maintenance, manufacturing, welding, and chemical handling tasks. Each hazard can cause immediate injury or long-term vision damage if not controlled.

  • Flying particles, chips, dust, and debris from grinding, drilling, hammering, cutting, sanding, or masonry work: Corneal scratches, embedded foreign bodies, puncture injuries, infection, temporary blindness, or permanent vision loss. [2]

[8]

(Risk: High)

  • Chemical splashes, mists, and corrosive liquids from cleaning, mixing, degreasing, or handling industrial chemicals: Chemical burns, severe irritation, tissue damage, loss of vision, and delayed injury if the chemical remains in the eye. [2]

[6]

(Risk: High)

  • Hot sparks, molten metal, welding flash, and radiant energy from welding or cutting operations: Flash burns, thermal burns, facial burns, eye tissue damage, and permanent vision impairment. [2]

[7]

(Risk: High)

  • Impact from larger objects or blunt-force contact with tools, equipment, or overhead hazards: Bruising, lacerations, orbital injury, eye socket trauma, or severe eye damage from direct impact. [2]

(Risk: Medium)

  • Improper use of prescription glasses, sunglasses, or contact lenses as eye protection: False sense of protection, inadequate impact resistance, and increased likelihood of injury because the eyes are not properly shielded. [1]

[1]

(Risk: Medium)

Presenter Note: Ask the group to name the eye hazards in their own work areas and to explain which tasks create impact, splash, or radiation exposure.

Control Measures

Use the hierarchy of controls first, then PPE as the last line of defense. Engineering controls such as machine guards, barriers, and shields should reduce exposure where possible. Administrative controls such as work planning, restricted access, and hazard communication help reduce risk. PPE is then selected to address the remaining hazard and must be matched to the specific task and exposure.

  • Perform and document a task-specific hazard assessment before work begins.: Identify the source of exposure, the type of hazard, and whether more than one hazard is present. Reassess when tools, materials, or work conditions change. [1]

[12]

  • Select eye and face protection that matches the hazard.: Use safety glasses with side shields for impact, goggles for dust and splash, and face shields only as secondary protection over primary eye protection. Use welding-specific protection for radiant energy and hot work. [9]

[11]

  • Ensure eyewear complies with ANSI Z87\.1 and is properly marked for impact protection.: Verify that safety glasses, goggles, or shields are rated for the intended hazard and that prescription eyewear is not used as a substitute unless it is protective eyewear. [3]

[5]

  • Keep emergency eyewash stations available and accessible.: Provide portable squeeze bottle eyewash for particles or non-corrosive liquids and a 15-minute continuous eyewash station where caustic chemicals are used. Ensure workers know the location and how to use it immediately after exposure. [1]

[1]

  • Train workers on correct donning, use, limitations, and care of eye protection.: Include when PPE is required, how to adjust it for a secure fit, how to clean it, when to replace it, and what hazards it does not control. [12]
  • Prevent exposure to coworkers and bystanders.: Use barriers, maintain safe distances, and require eye protection in shared work zones where particles, sparks, or splashes may travel beyond the immediate task area. [1]

[5]

Safe Work Procedures

  1. Inspect the work area before starting and identify all eye and face hazards, including nearby tasks that may create secondary exposure. [1]
  2. Choose the correct eye protection for the task and verify that it fits properly, is comfortable, and does not interfere with other required PPE. [2]

[2]

  1. Wear safety glasses or goggles before exposure begins and keep them on until the hazard is fully controlled and the task is complete. [4]
  2. Use face shields only with safety glasses or goggles underneath when there is a splash, spray, or flying debris hazard. [3]
  3. Do not use contact lenses, regular prescription glasses, or sunglasses as a substitute for approved eye protection. [1]

[1]

  1. If an eye exposure occurs, stop work, use the eyewash station immediately, and seek medical attention for cuts, punctures, or embedded objects. [5]

[5]

Presenter Note: Walk through the sequence: assess the hazard, select the PPE, inspect it, wear it correctly, and know the emergency response if exposure occurs.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Requirements

  • Safety Glasses with Side Shields: Safety glasses are the baseline protection for many impact hazards such as grinding, drilling, hammering, and cutting. They should have impact-resistant lenses, side protection, and ANSI Z87\.1 compliance. Use them whenever flying particles or moderate impact hazards are present, and ensure they fit securely without gaps that allow debris to enter. [3]

[6]

  • Wear them continuously in designated eye-hazard areas.
  • Use prescription safety glasses if corrective lenses are needed.
  • Replace scratched or damaged lenses that reduce visibility or protection.
  • Chemical or Dust Goggles: Goggles are required when dust, irritating mists, or chemical splashes can reach the eyes. Tight-fitting goggles provide a seal around the eyes and are more effective than safety glasses in splash or fine-particle environments. Choose vented styles for dust where appropriate and chemical-rated styles for liquid splash hazards. [1]

[8]

  • Ensure the seal is snug around the brow and corners of the eyes.
  • Use over-prescription styles only if they maintain a proper seal.
  • Do not use damaged straps or distorted frames.
  • Face Shield Over Primary Eye Protection: Face shields protect the face from splashes, sprays, sparks, and debris, but they are secondary protection only. They must be worn over safety glasses or goggles and selected based on the hazard. For severe splash or heat exposure, choose a shield with better coverage such as crown and chin protection and wraparound design. [1]

[11]

  • Use with safety glasses or goggles underneath.
  • Do not use as the only eye protection.
  • Select the correct shield material and coverage for the task.
  • Task-Specific Welding or Radiation Protection: Welding and other radiant-energy tasks require specialized protection such as welding helmets, welding shields, or goggles with the correct filter shade. Standard safety glasses and ordinary face shields are not enough for UV, IR, or intense visible light hazards. Helpers and bystanders may also need protection when they are exposed to the same radiation. [6]

[7]

  • Use the correct shade number for the process being performed.
  • Protect nearby workers from arc flash and radiant exposure.
  • Follow the applicable welding lens shade guidance for the task.

PPE must be inspected before use, worn correctly during exposure, cleaned and stored properly, and replaced immediately when damaged or no longer effective. PPE is the last line of defense and must never be treated as a substitute for hazard elimination or engineering controls. [10] [12]

Real-World Example or Case Study

A worker grinding cement without safety glasses experienced a sharp eye injury when particles entered the eye. The incident illustrates a common failure: the task created a predictable particle hazard, but the worker either did not have the correct PPE or did not wear it. The lesson is straightforward: identify the hazard before starting, wear ANSI-compliant eye protection, and keep backup protection such as goggles or a face shield available when the exposure is more severe. Immediate eyewash use and medical evaluation are critical if particles, chemicals, or embedded objects reach the eye. [5] [5]

Presenter Note: Use this example to show how a routine task can become a serious injury when eye protection is missing or incorrect.

Group Discussion

Discuss the following questions:

  1. What eye hazards are most common in your work area, and which tasks create them?
  2. How do you decide whether safety glasses, goggles, or a face shield is the right choice for the job?
  3. What problems have you seen with fit, fogging, cleaning, or damaged eye protection, and how were they corrected?

Presenter Note: Encourage workers to share real examples from their tasks and discuss how to improve compliance, comfort, and availability of the correct PPE.

Emergency Procedures

  1. If dust, particles, or a chemical enters the eye, stop work immediately and use the eyewash station without rubbing the eye. [5]
  2. Flush the eye with clean water for at least 15 to 20 minutes, or use the approved eyewash station as required by the hazard. [5]

[1]

  1. Seek medical attention immediately for cuts, punctures, embedded objects, or any injury involving metal slivers, nails, or wood shavings. [5]

Questions and Answers

Ask questions at any time. If you are unsure whether a task requires safety glasses, goggles, a face shield, or specialized welding protection, stop and verify the hazard before starting work. [4] [4]

  • Q: Are regular prescription glasses enough for workplace eye protection?

A: No. Regular prescription glasses or sunglasses are not a substitute for approved impact-rated eye protection unless they are specifically designed and marked as protective eyewear that meets the required standard. [1] [6]

  • Q: Can I use a face shield by itself?

A: No. A face shield is secondary protection and must be worn over safety glasses or goggles. It adds face coverage, but it does not replace primary eye protection. [1]

  • Q: When should goggles be used instead of safety glasses?

A: Use goggles when the hazard involves dust, irritating mists, chemical splashes, or when a tighter seal around the eyes is needed to prevent particles or liquids from entering around the frame. [3] [8]

  • Q: What should I do if something gets in my eye?

A: Stop work, avoid rubbing the eye, use the eyewash station immediately, flush with clean water for the required time, and get medical help for punctures, cuts, or embedded objects. [5] [5]

Summary

Recap of main points:

  • Identify eye and face hazards before work begins and reassess when conditions change. [1]
  • Select ANSI Z87\.1-compliant protection that matches the hazard: safety glasses for impact, goggles for dust and splash, and face shields only as secondary protection. [3]

[1]

  • Inspect, clean, and replace PPE so it remains effective and comfortable to wear. [12]
  • Use eyewash stations immediately after exposure and seek medical help for serious eye injuries. [5]

Action Items

Specific actions participants should take:

  1. Check your current eye protection for ANSI compliance, fit, and damage before your next shift. [5]
  2. Confirm the location of the nearest eyewash station and know when to use it. [1]
  3. Replace damaged or poorly fitting eye protection immediately and report missing PPE to supervision. [12]
  4. Speak up if you see coworkers working without proper eye protection or using the wrong type for the hazard. [1]

Remember: Protect your vision before the hazard starts — wear the right eye protection every time.

Report all hazards, near-misses, and incidents to your supervisor immediately.

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12 source record(s)

Sources used for this answer

[1] Toolbox Talk: Personal Protective Equipment

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# PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT Date Posted: 09/03/2016 Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is gear that can be worn to help minimize or eliminate injury. It can be worn to help prevent sudden injuries or injuries occur over time. It is very important the user understands the intended purpose of the PPE and verifies that it fits properly. that ## When to Wear PPE • Before you resort to PPE, you should first: • Use administrative controls • Implement Engineering Controls • Use local exhaust or general ventilation vs. a respirator • Control dust with a wet process vs. dry • Install sound reducing devices to mechanical equipment • When these other two means of protection are exhausted you then will need to select the appropriate PPE. - Often times PPE will be used in conjunction with administrative and engineering controls for added protection. ## BASIC TYPES OF PPE Head: Hard hat, welders cap Hearing: Earmuffs, ear plugs or canal caps Face/Eye: Safety glasses, face shield, safety goggles. Hand: Gloves for general use, chemical use, electrical work or hot work. Body: Chaps, leathers, coveralls Foot Protection: Leather boots, Safety toe/steel toe boots Personal Protective Equipment is gear that is worn to help minimize or eliminate injury. It is very important the user understands the intended purpose of the PPE, verifies that the PPE fits properly and is adequate for the work to be performed. Remember: PPE is the last line of defense against a hazard. LEARN MORE ## QUESTIONS FOR DISCUSSION • Does the PPE you wear to perform your work fit properly and is it in good working condition? What can be done in your work area to improve the use of PPE? • What improvements can be made to reduce the need for PPE? ## PRESENTER TIPS • Pre-read the Toolbox Talk. Your comfort level and confidence will be higher if you know your topic. Discuss related tasks, work areas or events that make the Toolbox Talk relevant to your job site. • Involve the workers …

[2] Eye Protection

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WORK SAFE KENTUCKY Free safety resources provided by KEMI HOME SAFETY RESOURCES SAFETY TRAINING SAFETY BLOG ABOUT KEMI CONTACT US O # Eye Protection ## Print a Sign-In Sheet | Spanish Version Eye injuries typically result from small particles or objects striking or abrading the eye. Examples include metal slivers, wood chips, dust, and cement chips that may be blown by the wind, may fall from above, or are ejected by tools. Some objects, such as nails, staples, or wood slivers, can result in permanent loss of vision if they penetrate the eyeball. Potential eye hazards may occur from: • Hammering, grinding, sanding, and masonry work that produces particles. • Handling chemicals or cleaning products. • Wet or powdered cement. • Welding/thermal burns/UV burns. • Dusty or windy conditions. • Contact with contaminated fingers or objects. ## What type of eye protection should you use? The eye protection that best fits you will depend on your industry and risk assessment. Take into consideration the following elements to help determine what eye protection suitable: • Ability of the protection to protect against specific hazards. • Proper fit and comfort. - Unrestricted vision and movement. • Durability. • Unrestricted functioning of any other required personal protective equipment (PPE). Some of the most common types of eye and face protection are: • Understanding the limitations of PPE in protecting employees from injury. ## Safety Glasses Glasses should have frames constructed of plastic or metal with impact-resistant lenses. Most glasses have side shields available or are built into the design of the glasses. ## Goggles Goggles completely cover the eyes, eye socket, and area surrounding the eyes. These are tight-fitting and provide protection from impact, dust, and splashes. Welding Shields Constructed of vulcanized fiber or fiberglass and fitted with a filtered lens, welding shields protect eyes from burns caused by infrared or intense radia…

[3] Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Guide

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# Eye and Face Protection (cont.) ## Types of Eye/Face Protectors (cont.) <table><tr><th colspan="3">Eye and Face Protection Selection Chart</th></tr><tr><td>Hazard Source</td><td>Assessment of Hazard</td><td>Type of Eye/Face Protection</td></tr><tr><td colspan="3">IMPACT</td></tr><tr><td>Chipping, grinding, machining, drilling, chiseling, riveting, sanding, etc.</td><td>Flying fragments, objects, large chips, particles, sand, dirt, etc.</td><td>Spectacles with side protection, goggles, face shields. For severe exposure, use face shield over primary eye protection.</td></tr><tr><td>HEAT</td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td rowspan="3">Furnace operations, pouring, casting, hot dipping, and welding.</td><td>Hot sparks</td><td>Face shields, goggles, spectacles with side protection. For severe exposure use face shield.</td></tr><tr><td>Splash from molten metals</td><td>Face shields, reflective face shields.</td></tr><tr><td>High temperature exposure</td><td>Screen face shields, reflective face shields.</td></tr><tr><td colspan="3">CHEMICALS</td></tr><tr><td>Acid and chemicals handling</td><td>Splash</td><td>Goggles, eyecup and cover types. For severe exposure, use face shield over primary eye protection</td></tr><tr><td></td><td>Irritating mists</td><td>Special-purpose goggles</td></tr><tr><td colspan="3">DUST</td></tr><tr><td>Woodworking, buffing, general dusty conditions</td><td>Nuisance dust</td><td>Goggles, eyecup and cover types.</td></tr><tr><td colspan="3">LIGHT and/or RADIATION</td></tr><tr><td>Welding electric arc</td><td>Optical radiation</td><td>Welding helmets or welding shields. Typical shades: 10-14</td></tr><tr><td>Welding - gas</td><td>Optical radiation</td><td>Welding goggles or welding face shield. Typical shades: gas welding 4-8, cutting 3-6, brazing 3-4</td></tr><tr><td>Cutting, torch brazing, torch soldering</td><td>Optical radiation</td><td>Spectacles or welding face shield. Typical shades: 1.5-3</td></tr><tr><td>Glare</td><td>Poor vision</td><td>S…

[4] Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Guide

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# Eye and Face Protection (cont.) ## Types of Eye/Face Protectors (cont.) <table><tr><th>Туре</th><th>Hazard Protection</th><th>Description</th><th></th></tr><tr><td>Welder's goggles</td><td>protect eyes from sparking, scaling, or splashing metals; harmful light rays</td><td>Impact resistant lenses, available in graduated shades of filtration</td><td>DANGER LASER</td></tr><tr><td>Chippers/ Grinders goggles</td><td>protect eyes from flying particles</td><td>dual protective eye cups impact resistant clear lenses with individual cover plates</td><td></td></tr><tr><td>◆ Laser safety goggles</td><td>protect eyes from intense concentrations of light from lasers</td><td>protect for the specific wavelength of the laser and be of optical density adequate for the energy involved</td><td>Laser safety goggles</td></tr><tr><td>Face shield (*should only be worn over primary eye protection - spectacles or goggles)</td><td>protect eyes and entire face against flying particles, metal sparks, and chemical/biological splash or spray</td><td>adjustable headgear face shield of tinted/transparent acetate or polycarbonate materials, or wire screen • may be polarized for glare protection various sizes, tensile strength, impact/heat resistance, and light ray filtering capacity does not protect from impact hazards - must be used with primary eye protection (spectacles or goggles)</td><td>Face shield</td></tr><tr><td>Welding shields</td><td>protection from infra-red or radiant light burns, flying sparks, metal spatter, and slag chips - • welding brazing • soldering resistance welding bare or shielded electric arc welding • oxyacetylene welding and cutting operations</td><td>vulcanized fiber or glass fiber body • ratchet/button type adjustable headgear or cap attachment filter and cover plate holder • does not protect from impact hazards must be used with primary eye protection (spectacles or goggles)</td><td>Welding shield</td></tr></table> The following chart provides general guidanc…

[5] FACT SHEET: Personal Protective Equipment

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# Employer responsibility (cont.) ## Hazard key (cont.) PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT ## Select appropriate equipment Provide appropriate PPE to employees who need protection from the hazards. Select PPE that properly fits workers and ensure equipment is inspected and maintained. Communicate the PPE selection decision to employees. Require that employees use the equipment and use it correctly. Hazards that cannot be eliminated through engineering or administrative controls are the ones to control with PPE. Table 2 matches appropriate personal protective equipment with common workplace hazards. The list is not intended to be exhaustive. ## Train employees Although not required, employers should keep a record of employees who receive PPE training. The record should document the worker's name, the type of training, and the training date. Employees must receive the following information in training: - What PPE is necessary • When PPE must be worn • How to put on, adjust, wear, and remove PPE - The limitations of PPE ● Proper care, maintenance, and useful life of PPE • When to replace worn-out PPE • How to discard contaminated PPE Table 2 <table><tr><th>Body part</th><th>Hazard</th><th>Appropriate PPE</th></tr><tr><td rowspan="4">Eyes and face</td><td>Flying particles or dust</td><td>Safety glasses with side shields, goggles, face shields, sand-blasting helmets</td></tr><tr><td>Molten metal</td><td>Splash goggles, face shields</td></tr><tr><td>Liquid chemicals</td><td>Gas-tight goggles, face shields</td></tr><tr><td>UV or IR light</td><td>Laser-safety lens with appropriate filter</td></tr><tr><td rowspan="4">Head</td><td>Falling or overhead objects</td><td>Hard hat, helmet</td></tr><tr><td>Electrical conductors</td><td>Class B hard hat or helmet</td></tr><tr><td>Power-driven machinery</td><td>Head covering or caps that completely cover hair</td></tr><tr><td>Molten metal</td><td>Heat resistant hood &amp; neck covering</td></tr><tr><td rowspan="5">Feet</td…

[6] TOOLBOX TALK: EYE PROTECTION: A BASIC UNDERSTANDING OF THE OSHA STANDARD

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TOOLBOXTALK alliance An OSHA Cooperative Program INSTITUTE # EYE PROTECTION A BASIC UNDERSTANDING OF THE OSHA STANDARD There are 2.4 million eye injuries annually in America. With the use of eye protection, at least 90% of them could be prevented. Personal protective equipment (PPE) for the eyes and face is designed to prevent or lessen the severity of injuries to workers. ## Provisions for Eye Protection A CAUTION Eye protection required The employer shall ensure that each affected employee uses appropriate eye or face protection when exposed to eye or face hazards from flying particles, molten metal, liquid chemicals, acids or caustic liquids, chemical gases or vapors, or potentially injurious light radiation. ## Common Causes of Eye Injuries - Flying objects - Tools . Particles . Chemicals • Harmful radiation • Any combination of these or other hazards - Safety Eyewear Protection Includes: - Non-prescription and prescription safety glasses - Goggles • Face shields • Full-face respirators The safety eyewear must have "Z87+” marked on the frame and in some cases the lens. ## Potential Eye Hazard Examples - Hammering, grinding, sanding, and masonry work that may produce particles • Mineral wool or fiberglass insulation installation may lead to particle contact with the eyes • Handling liquid chemicals may lead to splashes in the eye - Wet or powdered cement in the eye can cause a chemical burn • Welding leads to exposure to arcs and flashes (intense UV radiation) for welders, helpers, and bystanders - Dusty or windy conditions can lead to particles in the eye - Eye injuries can result from simply passing through an area where work is being performed Types of Eye Protection Safety Glasses This is the most common form of protective eyewear. These look like normal glasses, except they have an industrial design and are produced from stronger materials. Designed to protect eyes against impact from small objects in accordance wi…

[7] Toolbox Talk: Eye Protection

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V Construction Eye Protection Toolbox Talk NIOSH CPWR ● Eye injuries from dust and particles, welding light, and chemicals are common on jobsites. Often these injuries occur because workers are wearing the wrong eye protection or none at all. Although some eye injuries are minor, even a simple scratch from wood, cement, or drywall dust can cause lasting pain. Metal slivers from a grinding wheel or rebounding nails from routine hammering and carpentry can puncture the eye and lead to vision loss. Welding light can cause "welders' flash" that burns eyes and surrounding tissue. Nearby workers and bystanders are also at risk. Work-related eye injuries can have life-long consequences. ## William's Story William was hand-grinding a small section of a cement floor. He had not been provided with safety glasses. William was finishing up the job when he felt a sharp pain in his right eye. - What caused this incident? - How could this have been prevented? *Have you ever suffered a work-related eye injury, or do you know someone who has? If so, what happened? ## How can we stay safe today? What will we do at the worksite to prevent eye injuries? ## Remember This • Identify eye hazards before you start work. - Always wear the correct eye protection for those hazards. • Wear safety glasses marked with "Z87+" on the frame or lenses, as an indicator of impact protection. • Use vented goggles for dust, such as cement dust, and non-vented goggles for chemicals. • Use face shields with safety glasses or goggles for protection from flying objects or chemical splashes. • When welding, use a welding helmet or goggles with the correct lens shade for the job (shade 10-14 for arc welding; 4-8 for gas welding; and 3-6 for torch brazing). Helpers and bystanders also need UV protection. • Take care of your eye protection and replace it when damaged. • Do not rub your eyes if injured by small particles such as wood, cement or drywall dust, or chemicals. Use the eyewash st…

[8] Toolbox Talk: Welding

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# WELDING (cont.) ## WHEN DO I NEED TO USE A HOT WORK PERMIT? A Hot Work Permit is required for any temporary operation involving open flames or producing heat and sparks, which could ignite nearby items unless they are protected or the work is completed in a designated area. This includes, but is not limited to, welding, burning, cutting, brazing, grinding, and soldering. The Hot Work Permit is a formal process to ensure that potential safety issues are addressed in the area where you will be doing the work and that someone else agrees it is safe to do it. ## PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT FOR HOT WORK Welding and cutting can produce hazards such as sparks, spatter, radiation (infrared, ultraviolet, and blue light), slag, heat, hot metal, fumes and gases, and even electric shock. Since these hazards may cause burns, injury, or death, it is essential always to wear proper PPE. ## EYE AND FACE PROTECTION • Wear a helmet with a filter lens and cover plate that complies with ANSI Z87.1 for protection from radiant energy, flying sparks, and spatter. • Helmets and hand shields must protect the face, forehead, neck, and ears to a vertical line in the back of the ears from the direct radiant energy from the arc and direct weld spatter. • Helmets shall be made of material that complies with ANSI Z49.1. • Filter lenses and cover plates must meet the tests prescribed in ANSI Z87.1. • Wear approved safety glasses with side shields (or goggles) under your helmet. • The safety glasses with side shields (or goggles) protect against flying metal, slag chips, grinding fragments, wire wheel bristles, and similar hazards, which can ricochet under the helmet. Choose a filter lens shade according to the Lens Shade Selector Chart in ANSI Z49.1 ## HEAD AND EAR PROTECTION • Wear a fire-resistant welder's cap or head covering under your helmet. It will protect your head from flying sparks, spatter, and burns. • When working overhead, wear approved earplugs or muffs. They preven…

[9] TOOLBOX TALK: EYE PROTECTION: A BASIC UNDERSTANDING OF THE OSHA STANDARD

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# EYE PROTECTION A BASIC UNDERSTANDING OF THE OSHA STANDARD (cont.) ## EYE AND FACE PROTECTION SELECTION CHART (cont.) Never work around work activities such as welding (UV radiation) or other hazardous work without the proper eyewear. Do Not rely solely on a face shield as adequate protection. A face shield provides adequate protection only when used in combination with the right protective safety glasses or goggles. ## REVIEW QUESTIONS 1) The use of eye protection is at the discretion of the employer/employee a) True b) False - The employer shall ensure that each affected employee uses eye or face protection. 2) Goggles or safety glasses need to be worn over contact lenses of any kind. a) True Contact lenses can be used in the workplace but ONLY when work with other appropriate eye protection. b) False 3) What are the different types of eye protection? a) Safety glasses or Goggles b) Face shields c) All of the above Talk Given By: Company: Date: Location: <table><tr><th>Printed Name</th><th>Signature</th></tr><tr><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td></td><td></td></tr></table> Under the Occupational Safety and Health Act, employers are responsible for providing a safe and healthy workplace and workers have rights. OSHA can help answer questions or concerns from employers and workers Contact your regional or area OSHA office or call 1-800-321-OSHA (6742). OSHA also provides help to employers. [Add link on "help to employers" to new Employer Portal page.] OSHA's On-site Consultation Program offers free and confidential advice to small and medium-sized businesses, with priority given to high-hazard worksites. Through the OSHA and SWR Institute Alliance, the SWR Institute developed this toolbox talk for informational purposes only. It does not necessarily re…

[10] Toolbox Talk: Eye & Face Protection

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# EYE & FACE PROTECTION Date Posted: 04/24/2023 Your eyes are vital for experiencing the fullness of life. Losing the capability to see is not worth the risk of taking shortcuts in your work for any reason. According to OSHA, thousands of people are blinded each year from work-related eye injuries that could have been prevented with the proper selection and use of eye and face protection. Additionally, there are approximately 2,000 work-related eye injuries each day, with the construction industry being affected the most of any other industry. When sorted into common construction trades, electricians, plumbers, and pipefitters are statistically at elevated risk! ## EYE AND FACE RISK FACTORS Many potential construction-related activities may create hazards to the eyes and face that necessitate appropriate protection. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), most work-related eye injuries result from "small particles striking the eye." Everyday construction tasks where small particles are likely created and may become projectiles include, but are not limited to, the following: • Jackhammering - Chiseling - Drilling - Grinding • Fastening • Cutting • Powder-actuated tools ## EYE AND FACE HAZARDS ## STRIKING OR SCRAPING Most eye injuries result from small particles or objects striking or scraping the eye, such as dust, cement chips, metal slivers, and wood chips. These materials are often ejected by tools, windblown, or fall from above a worker. However, large objects may also strike the eye or face, or a worker may run into an object causing blunt-force trauma to the eyeball, eye socket, or another part of the face. ## PENETRATION Objects like nails, staples, or slivers of wood or metal can go through the eyeball and permanently cause vision loss. ## CHEMICAL OR THERMAL BURNS Industrial chemicals or cleaning products are common causes of chemical burns to one or both eyes. However, thermal burns to the eye also occur, often among welder…

[11] TOOLBOX TALK: EYE PROTECTION: A BASIC UNDERSTANDING OF THE OSHA STANDARD

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# EYE PROTECTION A BASIC UNDERSTANDING OF THE OSHA STANDARD (cont.) ## Goggles (cont.) eye protection, goggles do not provide splash or spray protection to other parts of the face. ## Face Shields A face shield can provide additional protection to other facial areas that safety glasses or goggles cannot. Face shields are considered to be a secondary protector and must always be worn over protective safety glasses or goggles. To provide better face and eye protection from splashes and sprays, a face shield should have crown and chin protection and wrap around the face to the point of the ear, which reduces the likelihood that a splash could go around the edge of the shield and reach the eyes. Disposable face shields for medical personnel made of light weight films that are attached to a surgical mask or fit loosely around the face should not be relied upon as optimal protection. Cartridge respirators not only have the ability to filter the air before you breathe, but can also be used as eye protection. They will protect the eyes and all parts of the face. ## Eye Wash An important part of eye protection is the availability of emergency eye wash stations. Portable squeeze bottle eye washes shall be available where employees are exposed to particles or non-corrosive liquids. In locations where caustic chemicals are used, an eye wash station designed for 15 minute continuous operation shall be available, and in all cases, is the preferred method of eye wash where practical. ## THINGS YOU SHOULD DO IN THE WORKPLACE: . A hazard assessment should determine the risk of exposure to eye and face hazards, including those which may be encountered in an emergency. - Guard against eye injury by wearing appropriate protective eyewear. • Refer to the selection chart to choose the appropriate protection. • Ensure emergency eye wash stations are available in your workplace where employees may be exposed to particles or non-corrosive liquids or chemicals. • Protect your e…

[12] Toolbox Talk: Eye & Face Protection

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# COMMON TYPES OF EYE & FACE PROTECTION ## SAFETY GLASSES Safety glasses have safety-rated frames constructed of metal or plastic and impact-resistant lenses. Side protection is required, and they must comply with ANSI Z87.1 standard. the ## FACE SHIELDS Face Shields extend from the eyebrows to below the chin and protect against flying debris, splashes, or sprays from hazardous liquids. Face shields must also be worn in conjunction with safety glasses. ## CHEMICAL GOGGLES Chemical goggles are tight-fitting eye protection that protects the eyes from chemical splashes, impact, and dust. ## WELDING SHIELDS Welding shields are typically made of fiberglass or vulcanized fibers with a filtered lens to protect the eyes from burns caused by infrared or intense radiant light. In addition, these shields protect the eyes and face from flying sparks or debris (metal splatter, slag chips, and other debris produced during welding, cutting brazing, or soldering operations. Note: Protective eye and face protection must comply with the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) standard Z87.1 - 1989, 1998, or the 2003 version. RESOURCES WAC 296-800-[redacted postal code] WAC [redacted identifier] 29 CFR 1926.102 ANSI Z87.1

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