Eye Injury – Restaurant Safety – Stats and Facts

FACTS

Hazards Associated with Eye Injuries at Restaurants

1. Permanent vision loss: Eye injuries can cause permanent vision loss if not treated promptly or if the damage to the eye is severe.
2. Infections: Eye injuries can lead to infections, which can cause further damage to the eye and potentially spread to other parts of the body.
3. Pain and discomfort: Eye injuries can cause pain and discomfort, which can interfere with daily activities and affect overall quality of life.
4. Medical expenses: Eye injuries can require medical attention, which can result in costly medical bills, especially if surgery or long-term treatment is necessary.
5. Loss of productivity: Eye injuries can require time off from work or other activities, leading to a loss of productivity and potential income.

STATS

• According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, over 2.5 million eye injuries occur in the United States each year, and many of these injuries occur in the workplace and other public settings, including restaurants.
• A study published in the Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine found that 59% of eye injuries in the foodservice industry were caused by contact with hot liquids, grease, or steam.
• Another study published in the same journal found that 22% of eye injuries in the foodservice industry were caused by foreign objects such as food particles or broken glass.