What types of eye injury happen at work?
[Penetrating injury from flying particles, swarf, splinters; chemical splash (COSHH 2002 applies); arc eye / welder's flash (UV radiation); thermal injury; blunt trauma from impact; corneal abrasion from dust]
What does the law require for eye protection at work?
[PPE Regs 1992 — suitable eye protection where eye hazard exists; employer provides free of charge; maintains and replaces; enforces use; COSHH 2002 for chemical eye hazards; Personal Protective Equipment at Work (Amendment) Regulations 2022 extended duty to limb (b) workers]
How is an eye injury at work claim valued?
JCG 17th edition: Complete loss of sight in one eye: £54,830 to £65,350 (general damages) Serious but not complete loss of vision in one eye: £22,230 to £54,830 Minor eye injuries (recovery within weeks): £4,350 to £8,730 Loss of both eyes: £268,720 to £374,440
What if the injury has permanently affected your vision?
[Impact on driving, reading, career, depth perception; future treatment; see our related guide]
What if the injury was caused by a chemical splash?
[COSHH 2002 duties; eyewash station requirements; see our related guide]
Frequently asked questions
Questions readers ask about this topic
Can I claim for an eye injury if no safety glasses were provided?
Yes. The PPE at Work Regulations 1992 require employers to provide suitable eye protection free of charge where an eye hazard exists. Failure to provide it is a direct breach of the regulations.
Can I claim for welder's flash?
Yes. Arc eye from UV welding radiation is a recognised occupational eye injury. Suitable welding shields must be provided under the PPE Regulations.
How much compensation for losing sight in one eye?
Complete loss of sight in one eye typically falls in the range £54,830 to £65,350 in general damages alone, plus special damages for lost earnings, treatment and adaptations.
Sources
- PPE at Work Regulations 1992 (SI 1992/2966)
- Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002
- Judicial College Guidelines, 17th edition (2024)
- HSE — Eye protection at work (hse.gov.uk)