The hazard

The particular hazard for the automotive industry is that workers are exposed to flying metal particles for long periods of time during every shift. This high rate of exposure results in a high rate of injury. In these circumstances, devices that are highly effective in protecting against eye injuries are required. The industry has utilised protective measures such as screens to reduce the hazard, but the need for personal protective equipment remains.

Eye protection must be worn for long periods in hot manufacturing environments. The protection must therefore be lightweight, well ventilated and comfortable. This has influenced workers to choose wide-vision spectacles. The gaps around this type of eyewear can be large. This study has identified eye injuries occurring where the gap was as small as 5 mm and as large as 20 mm.