Introduction
Eye injuries at work can be painful, frightening and sometimes life-changing. They may result from chemical splashes, flying debris, poor protective equipment, or inadequate safety procedures. If your injury was caused by employer failings, you may be entitled to compensation.
This page explains when employers are responsible, what evidence helps, eligibility rules and how much you may claim.
At a glance
- 82 cases of sight loss(Source: WAAC analysis of the HSE RIDDOR data published 2024)
- Eye injuries can be caused by chemicals, dust, sharp objects, UV light or inadequate protective eyewear.
- Employers must follow the Health and Safety at Work Act and provide suitable personal protective equipment (PPE).
- Compensation can cover pain and suffering, treatment costs, lost income and long-term care needs.
- You usually have three years from the accident or diagnosis to start a claim.
Am I eligible to claim?
You can usually claim if:
- Your eye injury happened at work or was made worse by unsafe working conditions, and
- Your employer failed to follow safety laws or provide proper PPE such as safety goggles, and
- You have medical evidence linking your symptoms to the workplace incident.
If you are unsure, see Do I have a claim and The claim process.
How much compensation can I claim?
Compensation has two parts:
- General damages: for pain, suffering and loss of amenity. The Judicial College Guidelines set ranges from minor eye irritation to total blindness.
- Special damages: financial losses such as eye surgery, prescription glasses, mobility aids, transport, loss of earnings, and future care costs.
Keep receipts for treatment, optician reports and proof of time off work to support your claim.
Common causes of workplace eye injuries
Eye injuries may result from:
- Chemical burns from splashes or vapours.
- Flying particles such as dust, glass, or metal shavings.
- Sharp objects or accidental trauma.
- Exposure to bright light or UV radiation (e.g. welding).
- Lack of or defective protective eyewear.
See official guidance: HSE: Eye protection at work and NHS: Eye injuries.
When is my employer responsible?
Employers must provide a safe working environment under the Health and Safety at Work Act and comply with the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations. Duties include:
- Risk assessing tasks that pose a danger to eyesight.
- Providing suitable and well-maintained PPE such as safety goggles or face shields.
- Training staff in safe procedures and emergency first aid for eye accidents.
- Ensuring hazardous substances are handled according to COSHH regulations.
If your employer failed to meet these duties, you may be able to claim. See also Inadequate PPE injury claims.
Evidence that strengthens an eye injury claim
- Hospital or GP records describing the eye injury and treatment.
- Optician or ophthalmologist reports detailing vision loss.
- Accident book entries and health and safety reports.
- Witness statements from colleagues about the incident.
- Photographs of the accident location, equipment or PPE provided.
See How to gather evidence after a work accident for practical advice.
Time limits for eye injury claims
The standard time limit is three years from the date of the accident or when you first realised the injury was work related (the “date of knowledge”). Exceptions apply if you were under 18 or lack capacity. Read more in How long do I have to start an injury claim.
FAQs
Can I claim if the injury only caused temporary symptoms?
Yes. Even temporary but painful or disabling symptoms may entitle you to compensation.
What if I was not wearing eye protection?
You may still be able to claim if your employer failed to provide proper PPE or training. Your compensation could be reduced if contributory negligence is found. See What is contributory negligence?.
Will I need to attend a medical assessment?
Yes. An independent medical expert will assess your eye injury and provide a report to value your claim. See What happens at a medical appointment.
Next steps
If you have suffered an eye injury at work, you may be entitled to benefits, medical support and compensation. Explore benefits after a work accident and speak to a solicitor to check eligibility.
Our work injury advisors will:
- Offer free, impartial advice
- Explain how No Win, No Fee works
- Recommend the right solicitor
External references
- NHS: Eye injuries - symptoms, first aid and when to get urgent help.
- NHS: Vision loss - guidance on temporary and permanent sight loss.
- HSE: Eye protection at work - employer duties on selecting and enforcing eye PPE.
- HSE: PPE at Work Regulations - practical guide to legal requirements for PPE provision.
- HSE: RIDDOR reporting - when eye injuries and loss of sight must be reported.
- Royal College of Ophthalmologists - patient information and clinical resources.
- College of Optometrists: Patient guide - A to Z eye health and treatment advice.
- RNIB: Support for sight loss - independent help, rehabilitation and practical resources.
About the author
Chris Salmon is a legal commentator and co-founder of Quittance Legal Services. He has written extensively about workplace accidents, employment rights and the claims process. Chris's work has been cited in national media and he regularly contributes practical guidance to help injured workers understand their options.
Last reviewed September 2025 by Chris Salmon