I got metal fragments in my eye at work. My employer did not provide safety glasses.

A foreign body in the eye from grinding or cutting metal is a medical emergency. Metal fragments can rust in the eye within hours and cause permanent scarring if not removed properly. NEVER rub the eye or try to remove metal yourself. Go straight to A&E or an eye casualty unit where they can: - Examine with a slit lamp - Remove the fragment safely - Check for corneal damage - Prescribe antibiotic drops to prevent infection Keep a record of the incident for a potential workplace injury claim.

Your employer has broken the law. Under the Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations 1992, safety goggles or glasses must be provided free of charge for any task involving flying particles, sparks, or dust. This includes grinding, cutting, drilling, and welding. Report this to HSE immediately. You may also be entitled to compensation for your injury.

This is an important workplace health question. Based on the information above, we recommend speaking with your GP if you have health concerns and contacting HSE (0300 003 1647) if your employer is not meeting their legal obligations. Keep written records of all incidents and communications. Please note: this is general health information, not a substitute for professional medical advice.