Although workplace eye injuries could lead to chemical burns or blindness, 85 percent of industrial workers report seeing others not wear eye protection when necessary, according to a survey by Kimberly-Clark Professional.

"This high rate of noncompliance seriously jeopardizes worker health and safety," says Valona Renner-Thomas, product manager, eye and face protection of Kimberly-Clark Professional. "In many instances, uncomfortable eyewear or fogged lenses could be responsible. The results are very disconcerting when you consider that 90 percent of eye injuries can be prevented through the use of proper protective eyewear. Enhancing eyewear practices is critical to creating exceptional workplaces—those that are safe, healthy and productive for all employees."  

Under a mandate by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, employers must provide eye and face protection; however, based on data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, roughly three out of five injured workers weren't wearing eye protection or were simply wearing the wrong type when an accident occurred.