Poor vision health among employees has been linked to a drop in workplace productivity and can cost businesses in the long run. The estimated 700,000 workplace eye injuries that happen every year cost businesses roughly $934 million in combined productivity loss, health costs, fines and employee compensation.
This Workplace Eye Wellness Month, employers are being encouraged to promote vision health practices among employees. Here are some eye wellness best practices worth promoting in the workplace:
Contrary to what many believe, sitting too close to the computer screen won’t cause near- or farsightedness, conditions with strong genetic links. However, it can increase eye strain. To reduce digital eye strain, the computer screen should be about 20 to 28 inches away from the face. And, if employees have to constantly move closer to the screen to see better, they should see an eye specialist as soon as possible. That’s because they might need a higher eyeglass prescription. Alternatively, if they’re not comfortable wearing glasses, there’s the option of undergoing orthokeratology or ortho-k treatment.
Adjusting the computer’s display settings can also help reduce digital eye strain. The font size should be enlarged in order for easier viewing and the color temperature should be lowered to reduce blue light, which is the short-wavelength visible light associated with eye strain.
The problem with avoiding exposure to blue light is that there’s no escaping it in the office – 60% of people spend most of their time at work in front of a computer screen. Fortunately, there are several ways to reduce the blue light emitted by devices. One of them is to install screen filters.
Important note: in general, if vision issues are affecting work productivity, employees should see one of the local eye doctors as soon as possible.
Looking for eye specialists in your area?
Insight Vision Center Optometry offers a wide range of professional eye care services. To schedule an appointment, call us at (714) 486-3315, or fill out this form. We serve homeowners in Costa Mesa and Newport Beach as well as the surrounding communities.
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