CONTACT LENSES IN THE STUDIO



     Many artists wear contact lenses on a regular basis.  While these are

often worn for cosmetic reasons, sometimes visual acuity is better with

contact lenses rather than glasses.  Certain vision problems are only

correctable by contact lenses.  Also, it can be very uncomfortable to wear

prescription glasses underneath eye protection because of extra reflection and

glare.          

      The Center for Safety in the Arts, and other health and safety groups

have previously taken a conservative position concerning contact lenses in the

studio.  However, many groups, as well as Center for Safety in the Arts, are

modifying this position in the light of new information about the risks.  In

several cases, economic issues are a factor.  Also, in accordance with the

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), accommodations and policy must be in

place for those individuals who cannot get corrective vision without the use

of contact lenses.        

      The American College of Occupational and Environmental Medicine states

that "....it is reasonable to allow the use of soft or hard contact lenses in

any area that the unaided eye is permitted....It is cumbersome and

uncomfortable to wear prescription spectacles under goggles."  The ACOEM

further states that the greater cost of providing the combination of safety

prescription glasses and goggles inhibits compliance.                          

                                             

      The American Chemical Society's Committee on Chemical Safety had

previously recommended that contact lenses should not be worn in the chemistry

laboratory except for therapeutic reasons.  They stated that in the case of

chemical splash, the danger was increased by the use of contact lenses, that

instant irrigation would be impossible because of the contact lens, and that

contact lenses can actually trap particulate matter.                           

      Now, the ACS Committee on Chemical Safety has revised their

recommendation.  Schools and art programs, as well as professional art studios

that employ artists who work with chemicals, are encouraged to reevaluate

their contact lens policies.  In the case that there is no existing policy, a

sample contact lens policy should include the following elements:  

* the policy should be written,

* contact lens wearers should be identified, 

* any contraindicated areas and conditions must be identified,  

* emergency and first aid procedures,

* designation of proper eye protection,

* education and training of workers, and

* optionally, the requirement of having a spare set of corrective lenses at

the studio.  Some companies provide these at no cost.

     In some cases, certain federal regulations have determined substances

that should not be used with contact lenses. Prohibited chemicals include

methylene chloride (29 CFR 1910.1052), and ethylene oxide (29 CFR 1910.1047).

     In the case of a splash, start rinsing the eye with the contact lens in

place.  The lens may come out, or can be removed.  Rinse for 15-20 minutes.





Reprinted from Art Hazards News Vol 21 NO. 3 1998



(c)  Center for Safety in the Arts 1998