Work and Vision

The ICOH Scientific Committee on Work and Vision focuses on the study, prevention, and management of occupational hazards that may affect visual function, with the goal of promoting visual health among workers globally. With an ever-growing network of international members, the Committee fosters collaboration across disciplines and regions.

Work-related visual disorders are increasingly recognized as a significant global occupational health issue, affecting millions of workers and impacting productivity. According to recent estimates by international agencies, about 13 million people worldwide live with vision impairment linked to their work, and an estimated 3.5 million occupational eye injuries occur each year. These work-related eye injuries account for roughly 1% of all non-fatal workplace injuries. Beyond acute injuries, chronic eye conditions related to work are on the rise. Healthy vision is integral to safety and efficiency at work, as workers with vision impairment are 30% less likely to be employed compared to those without visual deficits. This global burden underscores the need for coordinated prevention and protection strategies in the workplace to safeguard visual health (Eye health and the world of work, Geneva: International Labour Office, 2023).

The ICOH Scientific Committee on Work and Vision specifically focuses on these issues, advocating for research, awareness, and preventive measures to reduce the burden of work-related visual disorders. By implementing better lighting standards, encouraging breaks from screens, and integrating vision care into occupational health programs, workplaces can significantly reduce the risk of visual fatigue and ensure that employees maintain healthy vision throughout their working lives. This concerted effort is essential in an era where digital technology is ubiquitous, ensuring that progress and innovation do not come at the cost of workers’ ocular health.

Our members are professionals in occupational health, ophthalmology, optometry, ergonomics, and visual sciences who work together to develop best practices, share evidence-based research, and raise awareness about visual demands in the workplace. The Committee also provides a multidisciplinary forum for dialogue, learning, and action on visual health in the occupational setting.