How to prevent eye injuries at work and at home

Published on 16 June 2025

Eye injuries are more common than we think, both at work and at home. A spark, a chemical, a misused tool or even a branch in the garden can put our vision at risk. At Clínica Castellote, we therefore share the key ways to protect your eyes and avoid injuries that can have serious consequences.

Why is preventing eye injuries important?

Any damage to your eyes can greatly affect your quality of life. Even a minor injury may cause persistent discomfort, while a serious one can lead to vision loss. The good news is that most such accidents can be avoided with appropriate protective and preventive measures.

Main causes of eye injuries

At work

• Industry and construction: Blows, flying particles, sparks, dust or chemicals.
• Laboratories or healthcare settings: Splashes of irritating liquids.

At home

• Gardening and DIY: Branches, tools, sawdust or dust.
• Cleaning products: Accidental splashes of ammonia, bleach or aerosols.
• Cooking: Hot oil, steam or contact with spicy foods.
• Children's toys: Sharp points, projectiles or misuse.

How to prevent eye injuries

1. Always wear appropriate eye protection

At work or when doing risky tasks at home, wear approved safety glasses. Choose the correct type for the activity: protection against impact, chemical splashes or UV rays.

2. Keep your surroundings clean and tidy

Avoid loose objects, poorly stored tools or slippery surfaces that could cause falls or blows near the eyes.

3. Protect your eyes when using chemicals

Always read the instructions and never mix products. Wear protective glasses and gloves if necessary.

4. Teach children to use toys and objects safely

Supervise their play and choose age-appropriate toys, avoiding those with small parts or dangerous points.

What should you do if you suffer an eye injury?

In the event of a blow, chemical burn or foreign-body sensation in the eye:

• Do not rub your eyes.
• Rinse with clean water for several minutes if chemicals have come into contact with the eye.
• Go immediately to an emergency department or eye care centre.

Conclusion: protect your eyesight every day

Caring for your eye health does not require great effort, but it does require consistency and common sense. At Clínica Castellote, we help keep your eyes healthy with regular check-ups and specialist guidance. Contact us at Clínica Castellote if you have suffered an eye injury or have discomfort; book an appointment and we will provide the care you deserve. Please follow us on Facebook and Instagram to learn much more about your vision. You can also read our latest articles on the blog, where we discuss different eye conditions, symptoms and treatments.