Safety Bulletin: Eye Injuries from Overhead Drilling
Summary of Recent Incidents
In the past several weeks, two teammates suffered eye injuries while performing overhead drilling tasks. In both cases, metal debris entered the eye, and each injury was classified as an OSHA recordable incident.
Incident 1
A teammate was installing a 1-inch conduit into an overhead box while working from a scissor lift. During this task, the teammate drilled above head height without wearing a face shield. As a result, metal debris entered the employee’s left eye. The incident was not reported immediately; instead, the teammate texted his foreman after hours. This delay prevented the teammate from receiving prompt medical evaluation and treatment.
Incident 2
Another teammate was drilling overhead anchors intended for future racks in a laboratory space. Although the teammate was wearing a standard visor, he did not use a face shield. While drilling, debris fell into the employee’s left eye. Initial attempts were made on site to rinse the eye, and the teammate believed the problem had been resolved. However, later that afternoon, the discomfort increased and the teammate required medical treatment.
Key Takeaways
- Face Shields Are Mandatory for Overhead Drilling: Safety glasses alone do not provide sufficient protection when drilling, cutting, or grinding overhead. A full face shield must be worn whenever there is a risk of falling debris.
- Immediate Reporting of Injuries: All injuries, regardless of how minor they may appear, must be reported immediately to supervision. Prompt medical care can prevent a minor irritation from developing into a recordable injury and ensures that the incident is properly documented.
- Supervisory Follow-Up: Supervisors must verify that appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) is being used and confirm that employees are fit to return to work after any injury or exposure. These follow-up checks should be documented.
- Job Hazard Awareness: Overhead drilling presents a predictable hazard—falling debris. Pre-task planning should identify this risk and include the use of face shields, side shields, and proper positioning to avoid exposure.
Lessons Learned
The incidents described above underscore the importance of adhering to established PPE requirements and maintaining open communication in the event of an injury. Prompt reporting, correct use of PPE, and active supervision are essential layers of protection.
These events serve as a reminder that every overhead task requires the appropriate PPE and that early reporting of injuries helps safeguard both the individual worker and the entire team.