Eye Damage from Sunlight
PPE | 10-15 min
Summary
The World Health Organization estimates that up to 20% of cataracts - the leading cause of blindness worldwide - may be caused or worsened by UV exposure. Unlike skin, which can tan to provide some protection, the eyes have no natural defense against cumulative UV damage. Workers who spend significant time outdoors accumulate UV exposure throughout their careers, with damage building invisibly until serious vision problems develop decades later.
Members get the full script, discussion questions, English + Spanish printable PDFs, and email delivery.
Start your 7-day free trialKey Points to Cover
- UV damage to eyes accumulates over time
- Wear sunglasses that block 99-100% of UV rays
- Wrap-around styles provide better protection
- Reflection from surfaces increases UV exposure
- Eye protection is important even on cloudy days
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should this safety talk take?
Plan for about 10-15 min, with extra time for questions and site-specific examples.
Can I tailor the discussion to my workplace?
Yes. Use the key points as a starting place and connect them to the tasks, equipment, and procedures your team uses.