Eyes on Safety

As we commute in our cars, we often see people dressed in hi-vis vests and hard hats working along the side of the road. Often times we see signs that ask us to slow down, warn of danger and work zones ahead, and everyone’s favorite: “speeding fines are doubled in work zone.” 

Those signs are in place to alert the driver of potential road hazards and to keep road workers safe. However, the fear of being hit by a car is only one of many dangers that road workers face while on the job. Factor in the environmental hazards of outdoor working conditions, including the sun and wind and  you can see that these workers need serious protection.

YOU CAN'T WORK, IF YOU CAN'T SEE

One of the most crucial things that road workers need to protect is their eyes. If their vision is impaired, they can’t see what they are doing or even worse, they won’t see that oncoming car. That is why safety officers need to factor in multiple elements when developing an eye protection program for their road crew. 

Find the perfect eyewear solution using our Eye Protection selector guide >

ENVIRONMENTAL HAZARDS

Let’s start with the sun. Its powerful rays create massive amounts of glare, which causes  workers’ eyes to strain. Sunlight reflecting off the pavement and other objects further intensifies the glare. This can make it difficult to focus on the task at hand and can lead to eye fatigue as the day wears on.

Wind introduces the variable of airborne particles. Various road projects can create dusty conditions, including road grading. The wind amplifies this hazard by carrying the debris and blowing it in various directions at high speeds. If the debris reaches workers’ eyes, it can cause eye irritation or vision impairment. 

Passing traffic can also create hazards that can cause eye injuries. Similar to the wind, passing vehicles can kick up dust and debris from the road. This happens most dramatically on unfinished surfaces where there are pebbles or loose asphalt on the ground. Remember that pebble that cracked your windshield? Imagine how that would feel if it hit a worker in the eye.

INNOVATIVE EYEWEAR SOLUTIONS

In order to combat this unique combination of elements and to help keep road workers’ eyes safe, it requires a unique solution. Luckily for their eyes, PIP offers a full range of protective eyewear designed to protect against the hazards caused by the sun, the wind, and passing traffic. Whether it is a certain lens technology, foam lining, or special fit, PIP has their eyes covered. 

Find the perfect eyewear solution using our Eye Protection selector guide >