What effect does poor fitting eye protection have on safety?

Properly fitting eye protection is crucial for ensuring safety in environments where hazards may pose a risk to the eyes. When eye protection, such as goggles or safety glasses, does not fit well, it can lead to gaps or misalignments that allow harmful substances or debris to enter the eye area. This compromised fit prevents the eyewear from serving its primary purpose, which is to shield the eyes from injuries, chemical splashes, or exposure to harmful radiation.

Understanding the effects of poorly fitting eye protection emphasizes the importance of selection processes in safety equipment. If eye protection is comfortable but does not fit securely, it can easily shift during movement, reducing its effectiveness. Additionally, if goggles or safety glasses do not create a seal or are too loose, they can inadvertently allow contaminants to reach the eyes, leading to potential injuries. Thus, having appropriately fitted eye protection directly enhances safety by providing the intended level of defense against eye hazards.