Changes in Eye Protection Behavior following an Occupational Eye Injury

Abstract

This study investigated whether workers modify eye protection behavior following an occupational eye injury. Workers treated for work-related eye injuries were questioned regarding the use of protective eyewear for the work-month prior to their eye injuries and again 6 to 12 months later. Workers reported an increase in the proportion of work-time they used eye protection (from a median of 20% to 100%; p < .0001). The effect appeared to be driven by whether eye protection was used at the time of the injury. Most respondents (66%) indicated they were more likely to use eye protection since their injuries. Workers not using eye protection at the time of injury were more likely to use eye protection in the future. A variety of employer and employee factors may influence this change. Although many workers' behaviors changed, health care providers should embrace the teachable moment when treating occupational eye injuries to encourage continued use or more appropriate forms of eye protection.