Chemical splash accidents are a sterling example of this theory. Engineering the hazard out of a problem (e.g., properly storing the acid) normally is sufficient prevention.

Despite decades of effort to eliminate them, occupational eye injuries remain a widespread and costly problem.

Administrative controls, such as warning other employees away from the improperly stored acid and bringing the hazard to the supervisor’s attention (rather than carrying the bottles), also prevent accidents. In this case, training was sloppy: the employee let down his guard, did not have his personal protective equipment (PPE) in place and almost paid with his eyesight.

When chemicals splash in the eyes, it is natural to close them to avoid further injury, yet closing them is the surest way to destroy eyesight. Acids burn initially when they contact the eye, then precipitate protein in front of the eye.

Ideally, eyes should be flushed with a sterile, isotonic, pH-balanced solution at a temperature between 60 and 90 degrees F. Drench showers should use clean, uncontaminated water that is near body temperature.