Many do-it-yourself projects around the home and yard can create hazards to the eye from chemicals, dust, or flying objects. You should always wear good eye protection whenever you engage in any of these activities.

There are three basic types of eye protection devices. Most are available from hardware or safety-supply stores:

Safety glasses can have your prescription lenses or lenses without correction. They look similar to regular eyeglasses, but they have impact-resistant lenses. Pick a pair with side panels to provide protection from the side.

Goggles provide better protection. They fit snugly to the face around each eye, offering little opportunity for a small object to reach the eye. They also provide good protection from dust, fumes, and chemical splashes.

Face shields protect the entire face as well as the eyes from frontal impacts. They do not offer good protection from the sides. You may want to use them with goggles for maximum protection.

You should use these protective devices when:
* you saw lumber,
* you use a power sander or grinder,
* you use a hammer (small metal chips may fly up from the hammer or nail) ,
* using a hammer and chisel,
* scraping old paint from a wall (paint chips may fall into your eye) , and
* when working with chemicals that give off vapors or may splash into your eye, such as paint stripper.

Take the time to prevent injury to your eyes. Invest in the proper safety equipment and wear it each and every time.

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