It is not merely the skin that is being protected from ultraviolet but also the eyes, especially of the workers who are used outdoors. Construction work often requires workers to spend long hours exposed to the sun, putting their eyes at risk of damage from ultraviolet (UV) rays. The Sun Protection market worldwide generated a revenue of US$11.49bn in 2024. Long exposure time to ultraviolet radiation predisposes one to eye illnesses. This article will discuss the various benefits of UV protection for construction workers’ eyesight and handling a specific aspect of UV sunglasses in securing vision.
Health Benefits of UV Protection for Construction Workers’ Eyes
Prevention of Eye Diseases
There are many hazardous factors associated with sun exposure. Eye conditions caused by ultraviolet rays include cataracts, macular degeneration, and pterygium. For construction workers who already rely on prescription glasses, it is essential to consider sports prescription glasses with built-in UV protection as they offer the same corrective benefits as regular prescription eyewear, while also shielding the eyes from harmful UV rays, providing clarity and protection in harsh outdoor environments.
External occupations put every outdoor worker at risk of developing those ocular disorders, unlike internal ones, as the American Academy of Ophthalmology puts it increased UV exposure. The chances of causing any harm to the eyes can be decreased significantly by using UV-protective sunglasses because they do not allow harmful rays to enter the eyes.
Avoidance of Eye Burn (Photokeratitis)
Sunburn on the skin is well-known among people. But very few realize that even the eyes can get sunburned. This sunburn on the eyes goes by the name of photokeratitis. The stinging condition can manifest itself with symptoms like reddening of the eyes, blurring of vision, and even a temporary loss of vision. Caused by excessive UV exposure, this painful condition can be prevented by wearing UV-protective sunglasses.
Short-Term Effects of Eye Burn:
- Red, irritated eyes
- Blurry vision
- Increased sensitivity to light
- Temporary vision loss (in severe cases)
Prevention of Premature Eye Aging
The skin is not the only organ that suffers from ultraviolet rays, as premature aging similarly affects the eyes. UV rays can hasten aging in the eyes, resulting in the development of cataracts and other aging-related effects on the eyes due to prolonged exposure.
Wearing UV sunglasses daily can help preserve eye health and prevent these conditions from developing prematurely, ensuring that construction workers maintain clear vision for years to come.
Practical UV Protection Measures for Construction Workers’ Eyes
UV Sunglasses Usage
UV sunglasses are available with 99-100 percent blockage of UVA and UVB radiation. This is how protective glasses can be considered as the best option for preventing effective harm from ultraviolet rays.
These glasses act as a strong barrier between sunlight and the delicate tissues of the eye. Such eyewear must always be utilized outdoors, even on cloudy days, because UV rays penetrate even through clouds.
Key Sunglasses Tips:
- Choose 100% UV Protection: Ensure sunglasses block both UVA and UVB rays.
- Look for Polarized Lenses: These lenses reduce glare from reflective surfaces like concrete, making it easier to see clearly and protecting the eyes from strain.
- Cover the Whole Eye Area: Sunglasses should fit well and cover the entire eye area to avoid gaps where UV rays can enter.
Protective Eyewear for Harsh Conditions
In extreme conditions, pavements, metal structures, hulls, etc. It will become essential that the construction workers use some special feature sunglasses. These polarized sunglasses will keep your eyes safe from UV and at the same time ensure reduced glare from bright sunshine so that visibility is clear enough.
Additional protection from flying debris may also be achieved while working under harsh conditions, with the use of these glasses and sunglasses in combination with ultraviolet safety goggles and glasses.
Types of UV Protection Eyewear:
- Polarized Sunglasses: Ideal for reducing glare and enhancing visibility.
- Safety Goggles with UV Protection: Useful when additional eye protection is needed alongside UV-blocking lenses.
- Wraparound Sunglasses: Provide more coverage to shield the eyes from UV exposure from all angles.
Shade and Hydration for Eye Health
It is essential to take regular breaks under shades apart from wearing sunglasses which is a primary line of defense. Because UV radiation is strongest during midday, outdoor activities of workers should be scheduled as far as practicable to avoid them. Hydration is very important for the eyes because it reduces dryness and irritation, particularly when the sun is hot and shining.
Implementation of UV Safety Policies for Construction Workers
Employer Responsibilities
Employers will have to make sure that their workers are well protected through the best eye protection methods. One step towards achieving this would be by providing UV sunglasses with other requisites for PPE. Employers should also educate employees on the importance of UV protection and how to choose the right sunglasses for their needs.
Regular Eye Exams
Regular eye check-ups can detect any manifest damage from UV rays and help employees to be diagnosed as required. Early detection allows the treatment of diseases such as cataracts and macular degeneration before they become advanced, which would ensure a better response from treatment and long-term outcomes.
Long-Term Benefits for Workers and Employers
Reduced Health Costs
By implementing UV protection measures, companies can lower their healthcare costs in the long run. Fewer workers will need to take sick leave for skin conditions, and the cost of treating sun-related illnesses will decrease.
Increased Productivity
By implementing UV protection measures, companies will be able to save on healthcare costs in the long run. Sick leave days among employees with skin diseases will decrease, and costs incurred on treating sun-related illnesses will be reduced.
Conclusion
Just as construction workers protect their skin, they should also protect their eyes from UV rays. Construction workers spend long hours outdoors, risking exposure to serious eye diseases. It is the duty of the workers to take the initiative into their own hands to eyewear, regular eye checks, and education on sun safety. These actions will protect employees’ vision now and contribute to a healthier, more productive workforce in the future.
FAQs
- Why is UV protection crucial even on cloudy days?
- The UV rays can penetrate clouds and more than 80% of UV rays can reach the skin during overcast days. As such, UV protection is important regardless of weather conditions.
- Which UV is good for health?
The only beneficial effect of UV, triggered by UV-B, is the stimulation of the production of vitamin D. Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium and phosphorus, playing a crucial role in bone health, immune function, and blood cell production.
- What are the benefits of UV exposure?
Beneficial effects of UV radiation include the production of vitamin D, a vitamin essential to human health. Vitamin D helps the body to absorb calcium and phosphorus from food and assists in bone development. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends 5 to 15 minutes of sun exposure 2 to 3 times a week.
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