Toolbox talk · Health · about 5 minutes
Eye protection
Download the PDF with attendance sheet
Why it matters
Eye injuries happen in an instant and can cause permanent sight loss. Grinding, drilling, cutting and chemicals are common causes.
The hazards
- Flying particles from cutting, grinding and drilling
- Dust and debris, especially overhead work
- Chemical splashes
- Welding arc and bright light
Stay safe
- Wear eye protection rated for the task
- Use goggles or a face shield where safety glasses aren't enough
- Keep lenses clean and replace scratched eyewear
- Use screens to protect people nearby
- Know where the eye wash station is
- If something gets in your eye, don't rub it: rinse it and get first aid
Ask the team
- Which tasks on site today need eye protection?
- Where is the nearest eye wash?
- When would you need a face shield rather than glasses?
The law and guidance
Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations 1992.
General guidance to help you give a toolbox talk. It doesn't replace your site's risk assessments, method statements, permits or training. Check it against your own site rules before you give it.