subject: Metal Fabrication And Eye Safety [print this page] The use of advanced lasers in metal fabrication shops can lead to serious injury if the proper safety measures and protective equipment are not taken into account. Many common injuries involve the failure to use the proper eye protection. With various styles, types and features, today's protective eyewear and safety spectacles keep workers' eyes and face safe while also eliminating distractions caused by fog, sweat or incorrect fits. Understanding the eye hazards related to laser use can help you choose the right type of eye protection for the job. Below, learn more about the importance of eye safety in metal fabrication.
Lasers and Eye Hazards:
The severity of laser-related eye hazards often depends on the type of laser used and the laser's wavelength, which determines the part of the eye that absorbs radiation and if the eye can focus the radiation. Exposure to a laser beam, during which the beam enters the eye, can cause serious eye damage, possibly reducing visual acuity to 10-200 or worse. Direct exposure occurs when the eye is in the direct path of the laser beam or a reflecting beam, while indirect exposure involves a beam scattered through the contact of a nonreflective surface or airborne particles. Laser applications can also give off UV radiation, which can lead to long-term problems such as cataract formation.
Protective Eyewear Features:
Various features included in protective eyewear ensure the strength, durability and a long lens life. Protective eyewear is available in the form of safety spectacles, goggles and face shields. Side protection is also required to prevent sparks and laser beam exposure from entering around the glasses. The lenses are often hard-coated to prevent scratches, and hydrophobic coating helps to control moisture and keep the lenses from fogging up. To protect from UV radiation, optical-grade polycarbonate is utilized and formulated to absorb the radiation. Tinted glasses can also help protect against light and glare.
Comfort and Visibility:
Perhaps one of the main reasons why workers often ignore eye safety precautions is due to the discomfort and distractions associated with protective eyewear. Glasses that are constantly slipping off the face, fogging up, getting scratched, and making workers sweaty and uncomfortable can lead to even more hazards, distracting workers from getting their job done safely and effectively. Therefore, comfort and visibility play major roles when choosing the right kind of protective eyewear. Today's styles and features of safety eyewear help keep workers comfortable while on the job, reducing moisture and fog and coming in various sizes that can fit any face contour.
