99 198 Definition Injury to the eye (cornea) from exposure to ultraviolet radiation (UVR) generated by welding. Other workers in the welding area can sustain eye damage from 50 feet away from UVR re- flecting off shiny surfaces, concrete, or unpainted metals. Characteristics Pain (usual onset is 6–10 hours following exposure), sensation of foreign body, intense pho- tophobia, erythema, tearing, blurred vision, edema of surrounding tissue, and eyelid spasm. The cornea generally heals within 1–2 days. Policy Evaluate employee in the occupational health unit. Objectives Clinical Assessments and Interventions Referral for Medical Action Eye Injury: Flash Burn (Welding) ● Increasing eye pain. ● Visual changes including blurred vision, spots or flashes of light, or loss of vision. Follow-up Actions ● Determine visual acuity. ● Instruct regarding safety proce- dures and eye protection. ● Discuss signs and symptoms of further eye injury. ● Treat as specified by medical order. ● Counsel regarding return to work and limited duty as indicated. ● Conduct worksite assessment to identify potential hazards and pre- vention strategies. Determine extent and severity of injury. Provide symptom relief. ● Assess injury to eye and surrounding areas. ● Determine visual acuity, as symptoms permit. ● Check eye for contact lens and remove it. ● Check for photophobia, blepharospasm, and pain. ● Administer eye anesthetic per standing order. ● Apply cold compresses to eye for 15- minute periods, 3 to 4 times daily. ● Patch eye for 24 hours. ● Apply ophthalmic antibiotic drops and give analgesic per standing order. ● Provide or refer for medical care as needed. Guideline continues on next page