Daud Olatunji
In a bid to safeguard the eyesight of factory workers, the Ogun State Government has issued a directive requiring factories to provide protective goggles for their employees.
The government’s decision comes as it raises concerns about the disproportionately high number of blind individuals among factory workers in the state in comparison to the general population.
During a press conference held on Monday in commemoration of World Sight Day 2023, themed ‘Love your eyes at work,’ the Commissioner of Health, Dr. Tomi Coker, addressed the pressing issue.
Dr. Coker emphasized the need for factories to prioritize the well-being of their workers by ensuring they have access to protective eyewear and by maintaining a safe working environment.
“We are speaking to factories and employers as well; they must make sure that they provide protective goggles for their employees as well as make sure that there’s safety around the workplace.
“We have realised in Ogun State, in particular, that the number of blind people that we see within the factory workers is far higher – the proportion is far higher among the people working in factories than in the general population,” the commissioner said.
She went on to highlight the startling disparity in the prevalence of blindness among factory workers within Ogun State.
“We have realized in Ogun State, in particular, that the number of blind people that we see within the factory workers is far higher—the proportion is far higher among the people working in factories than in the general population,” she revealed, urging factory owners to take immediate action in safeguarding their employees’ vision.
Furthermore, the commissioner disclosed that the state government has already taken tangible steps towards promoting eye health by distributing 250 free protective glasses, locally referred to as ‘Jigi Dapo,’ to artisans at the Mechanic Village in Abeokuta.
These artisans often face eye challenges due to the inherent risks associated with their work, including exposure to welding fire, which can lead to eye damage.
Dr. Coker concluded her remarks by emphasizing the importance of eye health and the need to invest in maintaining it.
She invited all stakeholders to join the initiative to “love our eyes at work and beyond” and encouraged individuals to affirm, “I Love My Eyes.”
This directive from the Ogun State Government serves as a proactive step towards addressing a concerning issue and ensuring the well-being of factory workers, underlining the significance of prioritizing eye health and safety in the workplace.
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