Eye Injury First Aid

The CDC recommends a variety of first aid solutions for a variety of workplace eye injuries. Here is a short list of first aid tips:

For Impact Injuries:

• Do not rub the eye.
• Do not try to remove a foreign object stuck in the eye.
• Flush the eye with large amounts of water (dust injuries only).
• Seek immediate medical attention if the speck does not wash out or if redness continues. If a worker has experienced a cut or puncture to the eye, go directly to the hospital.

For Chemical Burns:

• Flush the eye immediately with water or any drinkable liquid. Open the eye as widely as possible and flush continually for at least 15 minutes. For caustic or basic solutions, continue flushing on the way to the hospital.
• If the worker is wearing contact, flush over the lens.
• Seek immediate medical care.

For Eye Trauma:

• Apply a cold compress (without pressure) to the eye. A worker can also tape a plastic bag filled with crushed ice to the forehead, allowing it to rest gently on the injured eye.
• Go directly to the hospital if pain continues, vision is reduced, or if blood or discoloration appears in the eye.

Eyewash stations and deluge showers can make a huge difference if a worker suffers an eye injury on the job. A worker will require an eyewash shower if he or she gets a chemical burn or comes in contact with a substance that can significantly harm the eyes. Eyewash stations must be clearly marked and easily accessible, with a clean water supply that can run continuously for at least 15 minutes. Deluge showers that flush the entire body must be clean and sanitary with an adequate water flow.

To learn more about Eye & Face Protection visit our Eye & Face Protection Online Training web page.