[Occupational eye injuries]

Occupational eye injuries are common. The authors found that these constituted 2.5% of all the injuries treated in the Central Hospital in Esbjerg during the period 1.8.1987-31.12.1987. A total of 224 patients were included in the investigation. Of these, 145 had not employed any form of protection of the eyes when the injury occurred. This was mandatory where 34% were concerned and not mandatory for 66%. Occupational eye injuries resulted in 0-4 days of sick-leave and young men were particularly affected. Metal workers were most exposed and unskilled workers employed with grinding and welding. Forty-five patients had sustained more than two occupational eye injuries within the past year. Twenty-one of these had not notified any of the injuries, 11 had notified some of the injuries and 13 had notified all of the injuries. Approximately 80% had received instruction about employment of protective measures.