Abstract

SERRANO RAMOS, Cristina et al. Eye protection: importance and use. Med. segur. trab. [online]. 2008, vol.54, n.213, pp.81-86. ISSN 1989-7790.

Ten percent of the overall traumas in Spain are in the eye, these accidents where mostly at work. The aim of our study is to determine the prevalence and etiology in our area and propose preventive measures to decrease the number of accidents and their severity. We conducted a descriptive study in 41 workers attended in an eye emergency department (Hospital San Carlos- April2006) with a specific questionnaire (variables: age, sex, occupation, industry, supply and use of eye protection, recidivism, diagnosis and medical care). The results showed 25.6% of industrial eye accidents, 87.2% where in males with an average age of 35.15 years, 85.4% belong to the construction sector. The most frequent diagnosis was the impact of foreign body. We realize that 51.2% do not have safety glasses, and between those who have it, 48% do not wear it. So, our efforts must be geared to information and training on eye protection, worker and employer. The 46.3% of accidents only need ambulatory treatment, this implies that occupational medical should be trained in handling of eye injuries by their frequency and need for immediate treatment in the workplace.

Keywords : Eye injuries; safety glasses.

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