Background

Depending on the circumstances, appropriate eye protection may be provided by different pieces of equipment.

Concerns/hazards

Firefighters may be exposed to the hazard of eye injury during the course of their work. Eye protection appropriate in the circumstance should be worn.

Actions for employers

Employers should:

  • conduct a risk assessment of potential eye hazards and determine the appropriate eye protection in the circumstances
  • provide appropriate eye protection
  • train workers on the use of eye protection equipment
  • ensure workers wear eye protection appropriate in the circumstances

Eye protection

Goggles and safety glasses are considered eye protection.

The self-contained breathing apparatus face piece may be appropriate eye protection if there is no direct path from the outside to the facial area if the regulator is removed.

Helmet shields alone do not provide adequate eye protection during the normal course of activities undertaken in the fire service.

When to use eye protection

Workers should conduct a situational risk assessment to determine if eye protection is required. Some examples of activities that may put a worker at risk of eye injury include:

  • auto extrication activities involving the use of cutting tools, hydraulic tools or breaking glass
  • typical shop/maintenance activities like cutting or grinding
  • fire-overhaul activities
  • encounters with chemical hazards
  • refueling vehicles or equipment
  • pressurized containers
  • potential splashing of blood or other bodily fluids
  • specialized operations such as water rescue, building collapse, high angle rescue, trench rescue, confined space rescue, or wild land fire fighting

Other considerations

Consider the use of eyewear with sun protection during prolonged or acute exposure to sunlight.

Clean eye protection after each use, following the manufacturer’s directions.

Applicable regulations and acts

Read:

  • Occupational Health and Safety Act
    • clause 25(1)(b) for maintaining equipment in good condition
    • clause 25(2)(a) for providing information and instruction to a worker
    • clause 25(2)(d) for making workers aware of hazards
    • clause 25(2)(h) for taking every precaution reasonable in the circumstances to protect workers

Related

Read firefighter guidance note 4-1 Firefighters protective equipment.

For more information on eye protection, including the use of prescription eyewear as eye protection, read: