Eye Safety
The Problem
Every year in New Zealand, 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 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.
- Flying Debris: From machinery, tools, or hand tools.
- Chemical Splashes: During mixing, decanting, or cleaning.
- Welding Operations: Arc flash, hot sparks, and incorrect filter shade use.
- 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 AS/NZS 1337.1:2010 for medium impact.
- 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 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 AS/NZS standards, or
- Over-spectacles that fit over your prescription lenses and still meet the standard.
- Safety prescription glasses that meet AS/NZS standards, or
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:
- Gas welding/cutting: Shade 3–6
- Arc welding: Shade 10–14 (depending on amperage)
- Gas welding/cutting: Shade 3–6
- Maintain welding helmets and ensure side and bottom protection from arc flash.
Real-Life Case or Scenario
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 AS/NZS-compliant safety glasses when required.
- Inspect your eyewear before use: check for damage, scratches, or loose parts.
- Replace damaged or uncomfortable eyewear immediately.
- Use the correct welding filter shades and wear glasses under your face shield if required.
Employer Responsibilities
- Provide suitable eye protection for all tasks.
- Replace any damaged, scratched, or missing equipment.
- Train staff on proper use, care, and limitations of safety eyewear.
- Ensure safety glasses comply with AS/NZS 1337.1:2010.
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
WorkSafe NZ requires employers to identify eye hazards and ensure workers are provided with and use suitable eye protection (under the Health and Safety at Work (General Risk and Workplace Management) Regulations 2016).
All safety glasses must meet AS/NZS 1337.1:2010 standards. Additional PPE like face shields or welding helmets must be used as required by the task.
Disclaimer
These toolbox talks are provided for informational and educational purposes only and are not a substitute for professional legal, health and safety, or regulatory advice.
The content reflects recognised best practices and general industry standards as at the date of publication. However, it may not be applicable to all workplace environments or specific operational contexts.
It is the responsibility of the Person Conducting a Business or Undertaking (PCBU), as well as officers, workers, and other duty holders under the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 (HSWA), to ensure compliance with all relevant laws, regulations, and WorkSafe New Zealand guidance.
The authors, presenters, and distributors of this toolbox talk disclaim all liability for any loss, damage, or injury arising from the use or reliance on the information provided. Users should seek advice from a suitably qualified health and safety professional or legal advisor for guidance tailored to their specific circumstances.
Always follow your organisation’s policies, procedures, and safe work practices to manage risks and maintain a safe and healthy workplace.
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