Workplace Eye Wellness Examined
By Brandi Goodman
March is Workplace Eye Wellness Month. Now is the time to examine all the ways in which the eyes can be impacted by activities and equipment at work. With some tips in mind, you should be able to keep your vision safe no matter what your situation is like at the time.
Follow the 20-20-20 Rule
Experts have set a rule following the 20-20-20 method. This technique involves spending 20 seconds staring at an object 20 feet away, every 20 minutes. It's an easy way to get your eyes off your device screen and focusing on something unrelated for a short time. It will help to keep your eyes from drying out and becoming overburdened staring at a screen too long.
Wear Safety Glasses
Safety glasses are necessary for many job situations. Whether you work construction, are a scientist in a lab, or are a doctor or technician working with potentially dangerous machines, you should have safety glasses covering your eyes to prevent injury. Be sure you're using the correct pair based on your company's requirements and your specific needs. A basic pair of safety glasses won't suffice as proper eye protection in the medical field.
Wear Sunglasses
Perhaps you have an outdoor job. If you're able, you should wear a pair of sunglasses. The sun's harmful rays can do damage to your eyes. The more time you spend outdoors, the more danger you're putting yourself in. A pair of sunglasses with UV protection is best.
Don't Use Your Phone on Break
Vision troubles at work require time away from light and screens. You should use your break as a chance to close your eyes for a few minutes and allow them to recuperate. Don't use your phone on break -- especially if you work at a computer screen as it is. You need time away from devices so your eyes have a chance to rest. Too much screen time is detrimental to your eye health and well-being overall.
Speak Up About Eye Safety
If you see an issue with the way eye safety is handled in your workplace, be sure to speak up. Nothing will change unless the issue is brought to light. Speaking of light, this is one of the main vision concerns. Some offices are far too dim, causing employees to strain their eyes. Others are too well-lit, which can also hurt vision in certain instances. If you notice you're struggling with your vision at work, then the issue needs to be addressed.
Keep your vision in mind all throughout the workday. Workplace eye wellness is a serious matter that needs careful consideration. From frequent computer use to dangerous job activities, your eyesight may be in peril more than you realize.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Indianapolis, Ind.