Understanding Occupational Hazards in Optometry

Peeleer Mohammad Nayeem, B. Optom

Student, Acharya Institute of Allied Health Sciences, Bengaluru, India

 

Introduction:

In this, Professional hazards in Occupational optometry are defined as visual function and ocular health as they relate to occupational and recreational activities. Occupational hazards in Occupational optometry is a sub-branch “work and vision, visual performance, eye safety, and health”. Occupational hazards threaten workers’ health and safety.

Professional hazards contain various risks that related professionals may encounter in their work environment. In occupational optometry, vision, and eye health are evaluated and managed in the workplace. This sector of optometrists has several professional risks that affect their staff members’ eyesight and general health. Occupational hazards are used to describe optometry as it relates to individuals and their ‘home, school, work, recreation, transport, underwater and outer space environments’.

Here are some salient features and conclusions from the peer-reviewed research:

1. Environmental Hazards:

Optometrists need to evaluate risks posed by environmental factors such as lighting, glare, and exposure to harmful substances. They must also evaluate the potential effects of current eye conditions and vision issues on work performance. ⁽¹⁾

2. Ocular Hazards:

Various work responsibilities have specific ocular dangers, which optometrists must be aware of to propose suitable protection measures. This involves making certain that workers who are exposed to chemicals and other hazardous materials have access to protective eyewear. ⁽²⁾

3. Vision Skills and Job Requirements:

It is necessary to align employees’ visual abilities with the vision skills required to perform specific tasks. This alignment lessens eye strain and damage caused by the job. This alignment helps in reducing job-related eye strain and injuries. The likelihood of a work-related injury in the health and social care sectors is three times higher than the average for all industries. However, depending on the healthcare setting, there are differences in the degree of exposure to the risk of acquiring MSK pain-associated in occupational optometry. ⁽¹⁾

4. Vision Skills and Job Requirements:

It is impossible to stress the value of wearing the proper protective eyewear. Optometrists are essential in recommending and supplying the appropriate protective eyewear to avoid accidents at work to prevent workplace injuries. ⁽³⁾

5. Industrial Hazards:

Optometrists in industrial environments must address the special needs of employees, particularly those who are subjected to risks including chemicals, dust, and flying debris. These experts need to be knowledgeable about the possible risks to their eyes that come with working in various sectors and professions and must be well-versed in the potential eye hazards associated with different industries and occupations. ⁽⁴⁾

Arguments and Findings

• Preventive Measures: Optometrists support preventative actions to safeguard employees eye health. This covers routine eye exams, the supply of safety glasses, and instruction on proper eye care techniques. ⁽⁵⁾
• Policy and Implementation: Implementing comprehensive occupational optometry programs requires collaboration between employers, optometrists, and workers. Effective policies and practices can significantly reduce the risk of eye injuries and enhance occupational health. ⁽³⁾

Conclusion:

Occupational optometry is vital in addressing and mitigating professional hazards in the workplace. To manage and reduce professional hazards in the workplace, occupational optometry is required. Optometrists can play an important part in safeguarding the eye health of workers and enhancing job performance by providing appropriate evaluation, preventive measures, and learning.

 

Reference:

1. Diaconita V, Uhlman K, Mao A, Mather R. Survey of occupational musculoskeletal pain and injury in Canadian ophthalmology. Canadian Journal of Ophthalmology. 2019 Jun 1;54(3):314-22.
2. Riome SD, Mastromatteo E. The Role of Optometry in Occupational Environments [with COMMENTARY]. Canadian Journal of Public Health/Revue Canadienne de Sante’e Publique. 1978 Nov 1:55-60.
3. Hussaindeen JR, Surendran TS. A Tale of Intermittent Exotropia and Amblyopia 1 Does Vision Therapy Help?. MEDICAL & VISION RESEARCH FOUNDATIONS. 2016 Feb;34(1).
4. Cockerham D. Industrial Optometry Safety and Eye Care Education. Clinical and Experimental Optometry. 1962 Aug 1;45(8):245-8.
5. Riome SD, Mastromatteo E. The Role of Optometry in Occupational Environments [with COMMENTARY]. Canadian Journal of Public Health/Revue Canadienne de Sante’e Publique. 1978 Nov 1:55-60.