Eye Safety in High-Risk Environments: Lessons from Crowd Control Injuries

During Workplace Eye Wellness Month, we often focus on protecting vision in offices, construction sites, and industrial settings. But eye injuries can occur anywhere people are exposed to projectiles, chemicals, or airborne irritants—including large public gatherings and protests.

According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, crowd-control tools such as rubber bullets, pellets, and tear gas have caused serious eye injuries worldwide, including orbital fractures, retinal damage, and permanent vision loss. These incidents highlight just how vulnerable the eye can be when exposed to high-velocity objects or chemical irritants.

The AAO provides guidance on how individuals can protect themselves and what to do if exposure occurs. You can read their recommendations here:

Author

Wagner Kapoor Institute Wagner Kapoor Institute, specializes in diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration, glaucoma, eye tumors, and the diagnosis and management of complex medical and surgical eye disease. We are the preferred referral for National Retina Centers of Excellence and the preeminent provider of adult and pediatric macula and retina treatments located in the Hampton Roads region of Virginia & North Carolina. Our state-of-the-art facilities offer the latest technology and treatments to save your eyesight.