Lawn Mowers and Unprotected Eyes - A Blinding Combination

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American Academy of Ophthalmology

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According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, the Eye M.D. Association, "Fragments of rocks or twigs shot from trimmers and mowers are responsible for a range of eye injuries ranging from mild corneal abrasions and hemorrhages to retinal detachment and ruptured globes." Running into a sharp branch is another frequent cause of injury to the lids and eye itself.

The Academy offers these suggestions for safe mowing:

• Remove sticks, glass, metal, wire, and/or stones from the area you are working;
• Check your mower and tractor blades. If the tips are thin or worn, they can break off and become dangerous missiles;
• Watch for trees with low-hanging branches;
• Keep bystanders out of the "line of fire" -- at least 10 yards away;
• Use a grass catcher;
• Mow only during daylight;
• Wear eye protection while mowing. Regular eyeglasses or contact lenses will not protect you from eye hazards. You must wear protective eyewear over your corrective lenses. Polycarbonate safety goggles that meet ANSI Z87 standards are ideal.

In the case of an eye injury, the Academy recommends:

• For minor injuries: blink several times; pull the upper eyelid over the lower eyelid (the lashes of the lower lid can "brush" the foreign body from the undersurface of the upper eyelid); run lukewarm tap water over the eye, or splash the eye with clean water;
• For severe injuries or stab wounds, call 9-1-1 or take the victim to the emergency room or Eye M.D.'s office;
• DO NOT apply ice packs nor rub the eye. This could press on the eye and cause whatever is in the eye to become imbedded.

For more information on eye injuries, visit the Academy's Web site at http://www.eyenet.org. The American Academy of Ophthalmology, the Eye M.D. Association, is dedicated to achieving accessible, appropriate and affordable eye care for the public.