Contact lens safety: simple tips employers can share with employees

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Almost 45 million Americans — many in your workforce — wear contact lenses on a regular basis according to the National Eye Institute (CDC). Contact lenses can be a safe and effective way to see clearly, but they may also increase your chances of getting an eye infection. A whopping 99 percent of contact lens wearers cop to at least one bad eye-hygiene habit. Chances are pretty good that your workplace contains a number of employees who wear contact lenses who could benefit from simple care reminders.

Eye infections can lead to missed work, reduced productivity and avoidable medical costs, making prevention a win for both employers and employees.

Tips for cleaning and maintaining your contact lenses

Share the following CDC‑recommended tips to help employees build safe contact lens use.

Daily habits employees can follow

• Every time you go to touch your contact lenses, wash your hands with soap and water and dry them well with a clean cloth.
• Rub and rinse your contact lenses with contact lens disinfecting solution — never water or saliva — to clean them each time you remove them. Store upside down with the caps off after each use.
• Never store your contact lenses in water.
• Don’t “top off” solution. Use only fresh contact lens disinfecting solution in your case — never mix fresh solution with old or used solution.
• Use only the contact lens solution recommended by your eye doctor.

Situations that increase infection risk

• Don't sleep in your contact lenses unless prescribed by your eye doctor.
• Keep water away from your contact lenses. Avoid showering in contact lenses, and remove them before using a hot tub or swimming.

Preventive care and preparedness reminders

• Keep a backup pair of glasses on-hand, just in case you need to take out your contacts.
• Schedule a yearly exam with your eye doctor to check your overall eye health and prescription strength. Many times, this exam is covered under your health plan.
• Replace your contact lenses as often as recommended by your eye doctor.
• Replace your contact lens case at least once every three months.

Consider sharing these tips during a safety meeting, in an internal newsletter or as part of a benefits reminder. You can also reinforce the importance of proper contact lens care by encouraging employees to contact their eye care provider with any questions.

Vision coverage that supports your workforce

Did you know? Wellmark offers Avēsis Vision coverage, which can be bundled with your company's medical benefits. Featuring a strong network in Iowa and South Dakota and flexibility of benefits you won’t find anywhere else, these affordable premiums pack maximum value (including discounts on lenses, frames and other services). Contact your Wellmark representative to learn more, or send us an email at blueatwork@wellmark.com.