What type of injury can safety glasses help prevent?

Safety glasses are specifically designed to protect the eyes from a variety of hazards present in many work environments. One of the primary functions of safety glasses is to safeguard against eye injuries caused by flying objects, such as metal shavings, wood splinters, or debris that might occur during activities like cutting, grinding, or drilling. By forming a protective barrier around the eyes, safety glasses significantly reduce the risk of serious injuries, such as lacerations or impact damage, which can lead to long-term vision impairment or loss.

The other potential injuries—cutting injuries, burns, and muscle strains—are not directly mitigated by safety glasses. Cutting injuries typically require protective gloves or other equipment depending on the nature of the cutting work. Burns may be associated with hot materials or chemicals, necessitating the use of flame-resistant clothing or face shields. Muscle strains involve ergonomic factors and physical exertion, which safety glasses cannot address. Thus, safety glasses are crucial for eye safety and preventing injuries from flying objects specifically.