Eye Safety

PPE
English (Canada)

The Problem

Every year in Canada, workers suffer eye injuries that could have been prevented with the proper use of eye protection. Whether from dust, debris, chemicals, or sparks, these injuries can be serious—even life-altering. A moment’s lapse or using the wrong type of protection can result in permanent damage. Today, we’ll talk about common eye hazards and how to use safety glasses correctly to protect your vision.

Identify the Hazards

  • Airborne Particles and Dust: Common during grinding, cutting, or drilling.
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  • Flying Debris: From machinery, tools, or hand tools.
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  • Chemical Splashes: During mixing, decanting, or cleaning.
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  • Welding Operations: Arc flash, hot sparks, and incorrect filter shade use.
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  • Improper or Damaged Equipment: Scratched lenses, loose side shields, or incorrect fit reduce effectiveness.

    • Safety Practices and Preventative Measures

    Mandatory Use of Safety Glasses

    • Safety glasses must be worn whenever there’s a risk of airborne particles, debris, or splashes.
    • This includes designated work areas—no exceptions, even for “quick tasks.”

    Standards and Certification

    • All eye protection must meet CSA Z94.3 standards for impact resistance.
    • Look for markings that indicate compliance with this standard.
    • Use high-impact rated eyewear for grinding, power tools, or high-speed cutting.

    Side Shield Requirements

    • Side shields must be securely fixed and undamaged.
    • They help prevent particles from entering from the sides—especially important when grinding.

    Prescription Glasses and Eye Protection
    If you wear glasses, you must use either:

    • Safety prescription glasses that meet CSA Z94.3 standards, or
    • Over-spectacles that fit over your prescription lenses and still meet the CSA standard.

    Face Shields and Safety Glasses

    • Face shields are not a replacement for safety glasses.
    • Always wear both when performing high-risk tasks like grinding or cutting metal.

    Welding Eye Protection

    • Use the correct shade filter for the task:
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      • Gas welding/cutting: Shade 3–6
      • Arc welding: Shade 10–14 (depending on amperage)
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    • Maintain welding helmets and ensure side and bottom protection from arc flash.

    Real-Life Case or Scenario

    Where possible, use an actual incident that you have experienced or been involved in.

    A worker using a grinder decided not to wear side shields, assuming the risk was low. A metal shaving deflected into his eye, requiring emergency surgery and resulting in permanent vision loss. This could have been prevented with the right eye protection.

    Employee Responsibilities

  • Always wear CSA-compliant safety glasses when required.
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  • Inspect your eyewear before use: check for damage, scratches, or loose parts.
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  • Replace damaged or uncomfortable eyewear immediately.
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  • Use the correct welding filter shades and wear safety glasses under your face shield if required.

    • Employer Responsibilities

    • Provide suitable eye protection for all tasks.
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    • Replace any damaged, scratched, or missing equipment.
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    • Train staff on the proper use, care, and limitations of safety eyewear.
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    • Ensure safety glasses comply with CSA Z94.3 standards.

    Discussion & Questions

    • Has anyone had a close call or injury due to missing or damaged safety glasses?
    • Do we have the right welding shades available on site?
    • Are there any issues with the fit or comfort of the current eye protection?

    Encourage workers to speak up and share any concerns about eyewear or hazards.

    Commitment/Action Plan

    Let’s commit to inspecting our safety glasses before every shift and wearing them whenever required. If you notice any damage or discomfort—or see someone not wearing theirs—speak up. Protecting your eyesight starts with wearing the right protection.

    Wrap-Up

    A serious eye injury can happen in a second, but the consequences can last a lifetime. Don’t risk it. Use the correct eyewear for the task, keep it in good condition, and always follow the safety procedures. Thanks for looking out for yourself and your mates.

    Standards Overview

    Canadian workplace health and safety regulations require employers to identify eye hazards and ensure workers are provided with, and use, appropriate eye protection. Under federal and provincial legislation, all safety eyewear must meet CSA Z94.3 standards. Additional PPE—such as face shields or welding helmets—must be used when required by the task.

    Disclaimer

    “The information provided in this toolbox talk is intended for informational and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional legal, safety, or regulatory advice. The content reflects general best practices and industry standards but may not be applicable to all workplace environments or jurisdictions.

    It is the responsibility of employers, supervisors, and workers to ensure compliance with applicable federal, provincial, and territorial laws, regulations, and standards, including but not limited to those set by the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS) and relevant provincial occupational health and safety authorities. Site App Pro, its affiliates, agents, or representatives—as well as the authors, presenters, and distributors of this toolbox talk—assume no liability for the use or application of the information provided.

    Participants are strongly encouraged to consult appropriate legal, safety, or regulatory professionals regarding specific workplace concerns or questions. Always adhere to your organisation’s policies and procedures for health and safety and hazard management.

    All Rights Reserved Site App Pro 2025

    Last Updated:
    July 9, 2025