Work-Related Ocular Injury: Causes, Symptoms, Signs and Prevention

Abstract

The incidence of work-related ocular injury (WROI) has been increasing over the past decades due to rapid industrialization globally. It has significant impact on morbidity to both patients and nations. Temporary or permanent visual loss following WROI can have great negative impact on patient’s physical, psychology and social implications, together with reduction in economic growth of a country. WROI occurs more in developing countries, affecting the younger male with lower socioeconomic status. The mechanism of WROI include physical, mechanical, chemical, electrical, thermal, biological and psychosocial hazards. Recognizing signs and symptoms of WROI with early referral is necessary to prevent long term visual impairment. A good visual rehabilitation is important for patients to minimize visual disability and to regain a good quality of life. Both the employers and workers play an important role in preventing WROI with proper education, training and implementation of workplace safety rules and regulations. The aim of this paper is to highlight the common causes, symptoms and signs of WROI and prevention aspect of this problem. Awareness of this issue in the community can help to reduce the cost and long-term financial burden in the community.