Page 28 - OHS, FebruaryMarch 2023

CONSTRUCTION SAFETY fog, anti-scratch, and anti-glare properties, cannot be overstated. While just over 20 percent of workplace eye injuries come from the constrictions sector, “the construction work site itself is a hazard,” claims Edward Johnson, safety manager for Black and Veatch and a member of the ASSE’s Construction Precative Specialty Group. By focusing on the nuanced work safety issues that arise, we can meet the demands of today’s construction worker. Anti-fog technology really comes into play where humidity is present. Fogging eyewear is caused by heat, worker exertion and improper fifit of the eyewear. One company works on a proprietary technology that involves dipping both sides of the lenses in a permanent coating that keeps fogging from occurring. This technology provides a unique user experience in the toughest environments (heat and humidity), particularly when eyewear is used in combination with respiratory protection products, and eliminates the need to often wipe off the fog from the lens to ensure constant protection. Anti-scratch technology matters most when it comes to the wear and tear of glasses. One company works with a proprietary, double-sided coating with high-scratch-resistant properties to reduce any scratches and abrasions to the lenses. This robust coating, combined with anti- fog, is key to keeping the eyewear fully functional for longer periods, ensuring both a better performance on the job and a reduced cost of ownership by increasing the time before replacement is needed. Anti-glare technology is vital in construction environments as most work takes place outdoors. Glare from UVA/ UVB rays means workers must also be protected from these visible and invisible rays. When correct precautions are not taken, we expose ourselves to myriad risks associated with eye damage, including the formation of cataracts, eye cancers and other serious eye conditions. The polarized technology is embedded into the lens to shield eyes while boosting the acuity in all UV and light-sensitive scenarios while blocking 99 percent of all UV rays. Finally, agility cannot be overlooked. Historically, workers needing prescription lenses were relegated to one or two frames that may or may not fit their face or work needs. Worse, many workers had to switch between protective eyewear and everyday glasses depending on the nature of the work. Now, many products are prescription ready. Workers can be free to select frames that fit their face and style preferences without having to compromise their quality of vision. Most frames can have a prescription ready within days. By combining user data with state- of-the-art eyewear advancements, we are more poised than ever to meet the needs of evolving workforces to ensure safe working environments in today’s construction sector. Vincent Azibert is the Product Director for Bollé Safety in Lyon, France. In charge of all production, he organizes the product management team including the scope of all products managed by each product line manager. REFERENCE 1. www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/clinical- laboratory-technologists-and-technicians.htm 28 Occupational Health & Safety | FEBRUARY/MARCH 2023 www.ohsonline.com