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The purpose of this advisory notice is to provide general information concerning the precautions which should be taken in respect of persons who wear contact lenses while working in a laboratory environment.
As the type of work and the resultant risks involved in laboratory operations are variable, the precautions to be taken should be based upon the potential hazards identified in each laboratory environment.
Except for those situations where a significant risk of eye injury has been identified, the wearing of contact lenses in a laboratory is not hazardous. However, contact lenses should not be worn by those who are routinely exposed to irritating fumes, intense heat, liquid splashes, molten metals or other similar environments, and where the work requires the regular wearing of a respirator.
The wearing of contact lenses is not considered as a substitute for the required use of approved eye protection equipment and appliances, and those wearing contacts should use the same eye protection equipment as that required of other employees performing the same tasks.
Where there is doubt concerning the wearing of contact lenses in a laboratory, there should be consultation between the wearer, the supervisor and a medical adviser. Where there is doubt in a particular case, regular eye glasses should be worn.
Supervisors and those responsible for the administration of first aid should be aware of the identity of contact lens wearers.
Further information concerning this subject may be obtained through the appropriate Regional Office of the Medical Services Branch, Health and Welfare Canada.
This chapter replaces chapter 6-6 of PMM Volume 12.
Enquiries should be directed to the responsible officers in departments headquarters, who in turn, may seek interpretation from the following:
Safety, Health and Employee Services Group
General Personnel Policy Development and Compensation Division
Personnel Policy Branch
Treasury Board Secretariat
