In mining, safety of the eyes and the head in general is a primary consideration that employers and workers alike must strictly observe. Working in mining and similar types of industries can expose you to chemicals, debris, dust, extreme heat, radiation, welding sparks, and gases that are harmful not only to your eyes but to your entire system.
Eye injuries in companies that deal with these risk factors are not uncommon. You should wear protective eye gear when you work in industries that get you through these circumstances. It is your most effective defense against eye hazards.
The Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA) require all mining companies to provide their workers with complete personal protective equipment; many employees in the mining sector are exposed to health and safety hazards. This will ensure that all the parts of their body from head to foot are covered by protective gear. These can help to protect them from injuries if accidents occur.
These are some of the jobs in mining where you might encounter potential eye hazards:
1. Blasting and Excavation
This is one of the most common causes of eye injuries in the mining industry. Here, you will encounter debris, dust, and particles that can hurt your eyes. You should equip yourself with the proper protective gear every time you set foot in this workplace to avoid injuries.
2. Welding
Mining involves welding; it requires the installation of structures to facilitate ease of operation. Welding creates sparks and fumes which are hazardous to your eyes and respiratory organs. You should wear proper welding mask and breathing apparatus when doing the job.
3. Grinding
When doing this job, steel particles fly into the air which might find their way into your eyes. Wearing good quality working goggles can help to protect your eyes from the hazards of this task.
4. Construction and Carpentry
Construction jobs are involved in the mining industry. It is another job that exposes your eyes to the risks of dust, wood, and concrete particles. You should wear protective eye gear to protect your eyes from injury while doing construction jobs.
5. Chemical Handling
Chemical handling is involved in the field of mining. If you work with chemicals, you run the risk hurting your eyes due to fumes or accidental splashes. Wearing protective face masks, hand gloves, eye glasses, and safety clothing is necessary to keep you protected from injuries in case accidents happen.
These are some of the situations where eye protection is necessary in the mining work environment. Mining is a risky job, but it is necessary for the world economy to survive. As a mining worker, the best thing you can do to avoid eye and brain injuries is to follow safety precautions and to wear protective gear. Remember, there are only two places in your head do not offer protection to your brain. These are the places where your eyes are located.
