Choosing the Right Eye Protection for Construction Workers

Construction is one of the most high-risk industries for workplace injuries. With workers constantly operating around heavy machinery, exposed electrical systems, and heightened work surfaces, the risk of accidents is significant. That is why construction workers must wear proper protective equipment, like safety glasses.

Choosing the right eye protection for construction workers is more than just a matter of safety; it is a critical step toward ensuring their well-being and productivity on the job. The Denver work injury attorneys want to remind employees, there are many options for safety glasses available, and selecting the right gear depends on the specific hazards that the job site presents.

Why Are Construction Safety Glasses So Important?

Safety glasses are a fundamental component of a construction worker’s personal protective equipment. In an environment where debris, dust, and flying particles are common, the eyes are particularly vulnerable to injury. These can range from temporary discomfort to severe, vision-impairing conditions, including blindness. Workers need to take steps to prevent this damage from occurring.

Moreover, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) mandates the use of appropriate eye protection in environments where eye injuries are a potential hazard. To maintain compliance with these requirements, employers must ensure that every worker is equipped with well-fitted safety glasses.

What Type of Safety Glasses Should You Wear on the Job?

For construction workers, selecting the right type of safety glasses is a crucial decision. The best choice depends on the specific hazards present in the workplace. Some possible options include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Impact-Resistant Glasses: These are essential for workers using power tools or engaged in tasks where particles could fly into the eyes. Made with materials designed to withstand high impact, these glasses offer robust protection against physical injuries.
• Scratch-Resistant Glasses: For environments with high dust levels or potential for abrasive damage, scratch-resistant lenses help maintain clear vision, ensuring workers are always aware of their surroundings.
• Anti-Fog Lenses: In areas where the temperature rises and falls frequently, lenses can fog up, compromising visibility. Anti-fog coatings ensure that lenses remain clear, allowing for continuous, safe work.
• Wrap-Around Glasses: Offering protection from the sides as well as the front, wrap-around glasses are ideal for comprehensive eye safety. They are particularly beneficial in situations where hazards can come from various directions.

Your Options If You Suffer an Eye-Related Construction Injury

If you are hurt while working in Colorado, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. This insurance coverage can help pay for medical expenses, a portion of lost wages, vocational rehabilitation costs, and even long-term disability. Colorado’s workers’ compensation system provides benefits regardless of fault or negligence, which means that even if an injury occurs because a worker forgot to wear safety glasses, they are still entitled to benefits.

However, workers’ compensation claims can be complex, and obtaining the benefits that you deserve can be a stressful process. In these situations, trust an attorney to handle these legal aspects on your behalf. A Colorado workers’ comp lawyer can navigate the filing process, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent you in hearings—all while protecting your best interests.

Don’t navigate the fight for benefits alone. After seeking medical attention for your workplace accident, contact an attorney as soon as possible and begin building your claim for compensation.