Market Trends of Protective Eye Wear Industry
Increasing Prevalence of Eye Injuries at Workplace
- Eye injuries are frequent in workplaces, with the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) reporting that approximately 2,000 workers in the United States sustain job-related eye injuries requiring medical treatment every day. These injuries can be caused by a variety of factors, including poor handling and exposure to harmful chemicals. Industries with a high risk of eye injuries include scraping, construction, chemical laboratories, and electrical work.
- Chemical industries, in particular, pose a significant risk of eye injuries due to the potential for leakage of harmful chemicals. An accident at Delhi University, India, in February 2023 resulted in a teacher suffering eye injuries, prompting the government to impose strict regulations on the use of protective eyewear in the workplace.
- To address this issue, market players have been launching protective glasses and spectacles designed to prevent eye injuries. In October 2021, the Uvex Group introduced the Uvex Rx cd5522, a new line of safety goggles certified and marked according to EN166. These glasses can be used as protective eyewear in the workplace, and their launch demonstrates the growing importance of eye protection in hazardous work environments.
North America Remains the Largest Market
- The protective eyewear market has experienced significant growth in the United States, driven by strict regulations from the United States Department of Labor (USDoL)and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regarding employee safety. The increasing awareness of worker safety has also contributed to the market's growth.
- Regulations and derivatives concerning employee safety have become a significant driver of the global protective eyewear market in the country. Additionally, protecting the eyes from environmental conditions such as dirt, dust, and harsh sun rays has become increasingly important due to rising environmental changes.
- To meet the growing demand, market players are launching new, innovative, stylish, and comfortable eyewear in the region. For example, in October 2021, Pyramex Safety Products LLC launched Pyramex Atrex, an eyewear that offers protection from fine particles and dust while resembling sunglasses.