New Spring 2024 Newsletter

Our new Spring 2024 Newsletr is now available.

Take a look here https://bit.ly/4aHrpyp

Lots of relevant information about eyes and vision. In the 1st of a series I take a look in more detail about the issues covered.

#1 Protecting your Eyes

DIY projects result in over 30,000 eye injuries annually.

Here's a few tips to help prevent accidents:

Before starting, ensure you're equipped to handle the job or consider hiring a professional.

Eye protection is vital. Wear safety goggles or spectacles suited to the task—consult yout optometrist if unsure.

Use a dust mask if necessary.

For welding, use a full-face mask and goggles with BS1542 standard.

Never remove goggles mid-task. If they need adjustment, take a break.

Standard glasses or contacts alone aren't protective enough. If you need to wear spectacles, then prescription safety eyewear are avaiable in lots of styles and lens types. Most eye conditions won't interfere with DIY, provided you wear proper spectacles or contacts along with safety goggles. Those with color vision deficiency should seek help for color-related tasks. Maintain your safety equipment: clean them after use and store in a protective case. Ensure a snug but comfortable fit, and avoid using others peoples equipment

Durable goggles, especially with polycarbonate lenses or side shields, are recommended.

For emergencies, be prepared with first aid and eyewash nearby.

Common injuries come from projectiles like wood or metal chips. Always wear eye protection when chiselling, hammering, drilling, sanding, splintering, stripping, sawing, welding, insulating, or painting, especially overhead.

High-speed particles from grinding or polishing can seriously damage unprotected eyes.

If you do have an accident - get things treated as soon as possible.

Flush small particles or chemicals with copious ammounts of water.

Larger objects require immediate medical aid. Don't rub an injured eye rubbing the eye can worsen injuries.

Seek immediate medical help to prevent further damage or loss of sight. Do not rinse a punctured eye, but cover lightly if possible until hospital treatment is available. Always try and get someone to take you to hospital. Cuts and lacerations require professional treatment and you will probably need an eye patch so won't be able to drive yourself home.

For more detailed information you can visit

http://www.eyecaretrust.org.uk/view.php?item_id=9

Enjoy your DIY but make sure you protect your eyes.