Promoting Eye Wellness in the Workplace

Workplace vision health is a bigger workplace issue than most people think. It’s estimated that the 700,000 workplace eye injuries that happen every year cost businesses roughly $934 million in combined productivity loss, health costs, fines, and employee compensation. That’s why employers are being encouraged to promote vision health among their employees this Workplace Eye Wellness Month. 

Lumen Optometric, your trusted eye exam doctor, shares eye care tips below:  

Remind Employees to Observe the 20-20-20 Rule

While using a computer, you should take short breaks to allow your eye muscles to rest. Every 20 minutes, employees should look at an object at least 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds.

Avoid Sitting Too Close to the Computer Screen

A common myth is that you can develop myopia (nearsightedness) or hyperopia (farsightedness) if you sit too close to the screen. However, this myth has been debunked by the fact the two vision conditions have strong genetic links. While sitting close to the screen won’t cause nearsightedness or farsightedness, it can increase digital eye strain. 

To prevent digital eye strain, the computer screen should be about 20 to 28 inches away from the face. However, if employees keep moving closer to the screen to see better, they should see an eye specialist as soon as possible. That’s because they may need a higher prescription for their eyeglasses or contact lenses. 

Adjust the Computer’s Display Settings

Another way to reduce digital eye strain is to adjust the computer’s display settings to make it easier for your eyes to follow the text and see images. Adjust the computer display’s brightness to the same level as your workplace’s brightness, enlarge the font size for easier viewing, and reduce the color temperature to reduce the blue light—the short-wavelength visible light associated with increased eye strain—emitted. Alternatively, employees can also wear computer glasses, which have yellow-tinted lenses that block blue light. For more tips on reducing your exposure to blue light, consult your local eye doctor. 

Lumen Optometric offers a wide range of professional eye care services, including eye examination and corneal reshaping services. To schedule an appointment, call us at (626) 921-0199 or fill out this form.