A Hospital-Based Cross-Sectional Study on the Suboptimal Use of Eye Protective Devices (EPDs) Among Blue-Collar...

Ocular injuries, especially corneal foreign bodies (CFBs), are common among blue-collar professionals in India due to the insufficient use of protective eye equipment. This study aimed to the investigate the incidence and causes of suboptimal Eye Protective Device (EPD) usage.

A cross-sectional study was conducted at a tertiary hospital from January to June 2024, including 102 patients with occupational CFBs. A structured questionnaire assessed demographics, occupational exposure, EPD usage, and awareness levels.

The mean age was 37.97 years. Welding (38.23%) and metal grinding (31.37%) were the leading causes of injury. Only 27.45% regularly used EPDs, 17.64% used them occasionally, and 54.90% never used them. Reasons for non-usage included lack of regulations (60.78%), unawareness (17.64%), and financial constraints (15.68%). Notably, 35.29% had previously attempted foreign body removal themselves. Despite 80.39% being aware of EPDs, usage remained low.

There is a significant gap between awareness and practice regarding EPD usage. Enforcement of workplace safety laws and provision of affordable EPDs are essential to prevent CFBs and related complications.