Handyman and working environments
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If you're a handyman or spend time in a workshop, eye protection is an important safety consideration. Any foreign body getting into the eye can cause damage very easily to the soft tissue of the eye and can lead to long-term sight problems. If your working environment is hazardous, make sure your employer provides adequate eye protection. It's worth knowing that we have a good range of safety eyewear that can be made to your prescription available in-store.
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| VDU Screens- Taking care of your eyes |
Research has shown that prolonged use of computer monitors can lead to eyestrain. If your work involves long periods at a computer screen, make sure you take regular breaks to allow your eyes to relax.
Check that the computer screen is at the correct height and that you are not straining your eyes to see the entire screen. Your eyes should naturally focus on the center of the screen. Also ensure that your lighting is sufficient to work by - fluorescent lights tend to 'flicker' at a very high resonance which can cause eye strain without the sufferer even realizing the cause of the problem. It is advised not to sit with a window directly in front or behind you to avoid glare and eyestrain. We recommend having Anti-Reflective (AR) coatings on your lenses available in-store.
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Allergies and Hay Fever
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Summer can be a misery for those who suffer from Hay fever. Pollen in the atmosphere irritates the lungs, nasal passages and particularly the eyes, making them red and sore. If you suffer from allergies or hay fever, consult your GP who may be able to prescribe an antihistamine to reduce the reaction. Your eye doctor will also be able to give you advice on products designed to relieve sore or irritated eyes.
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| Being safe while driving |
Good eyesight isn't just a matter of choice. If you drive any type of vehicle, US law states that you must be able to read a standard car number plate at a distance of 50 feet. If you can't do this you are risking a fine and possible few points on your license. But more importantly you are potentially risking your own and other peoples' lives.
In additions for HGV's and Public Transport by law you must have:
If you find yourself squinting to read road signs or car number plates, book an eye appointment to have your eyes checked immediately.
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| Sunlight |
The damage that prolonged exposure can do to the skin is now a well-known fact, but did you know it can also damage your eyesight? Everyone knows the warnings against staring directly at the sun, but on bright days your eyes can be easily damaged by the glare of the sun. A good pair of polarized sunglasses or prescription sunglasses will help protect your eyes against harmful UV rays.
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| Chemicals |
Our modern world is filled with chemicals, many of which can damage the delicate tissue of the eye. Common household cleaners can contain bleach or harsh abrasives, which can cause major tissue trauma if they get into the eye. If you do get a splash of a household cleaner in your eye, immediately wash the eye out with plenty of water and seek medical attention as quickly as possible. If you're carrying out a major spring clean it may be a good idea to invest in a pair of protective glasses to avoid any accidents.
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Sports - Taking the precautions when participating in sports
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Sports such as football and soccer can easily throw up dirt and grit into the eyes, so while it may not be practical to wear eye protection, be aware of the possible dangers to your eyes when playing these sports. If you spend time swimming, the chlorine used in public baths can make the eyes sting, making them sore. A pair of swimming goggles helps to protect your eyes against over-exposure to this harsh chemical - as such it is advisable not to swim in contact lenses. |
