[Occupational ophthalmology and ergoophthalmology: a developing field]

Area of Science:

• Occupational Health
• Ophthalmology
• Ergonomics

Background:

• The Ergophthalmology Unit was established in 1979 at the Institute of Occupational Health, Milan University.
• Its creation was driven by the increasing use of computer equipment and the growing importance of visual health in occupational settings.
• The unit fostered an interdisciplinary approach, integrating occupational physicians, ophthalmologists, hygienists, and lighting engineers.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze and quantify near work load, including accommodation and convergence demands.
• To develop methods for evaluating luminance ratios within the occupational visual field.
• To investigate the impact of indoor microbial pollution on Computer Assisted Design (CAD) work and ocular health.
• To study the effects of blue light exposure on the Pigmented Retinal Epithelium (PRE) in specific worker populations.

Main Methods:

• Developed electronic equipment to quantify accommodation and convergence during near work.
• Employed photometric procedures to assess luminance ratios in the occupational visual field.
• Conducted microbial analysis of work environments and operator ocular surfaces in CAD settings.
• Performed laboratory and on-site investigations on blue light exposure effects in collaboration with health physics departments.

Main Results:

• Quantified near work visual demands and developed assessment tools.
• Established methods for evaluating visual field lighting conditions.
• Identified pathogenic bacteria and fungi on workstations and in the eyes of CAD operators.
• Indicated potential long-term eye risks from blue light exposure in workers using halide lamps.

Conclusions:

• The Ergophthalmology Unit has significantly contributed to understanding and mitigating occupational visual risks.
• Interdisciplinary research is crucial for addressing complex workplace health issues.
• Further investigation into the long-term effects of specific workplace exposures is warranted.