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Eye Injury Prevention Month

Don't turn a blind eye to the importance of preventing eye injuries! Join us this month in raising awareness and taking action for safer vision.

Thursday

1–31

October 2026

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEAll of October

OBSERVED INInternationally

CATEGORYAwareness

SUBCATEGORYPublic Health

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

October 1 marks the start of Eye Injury Prevention Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of protecting our eyes. Did you know that every day, over 2,000 Americans suffer from an eye injury? This month serves as a reminder to take precautions and prevent these accidents from happening. Whether it's wearing safety glasses while working or simply avoiding rubbing your eyes too hard, there are many ways we can keep our peepers safe and healthy. So let's celebrate this month by learning more about how to protect our precious sense of sight!

TIMELINE

Eye Injury Prevention Month Timeline

First Eye Protection Patent

In 1864, the first patent was issued for eye protection designed to shield individuals during work.

Establishment of AAO

The American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO), a professional medical association devoted to eye care, was established in 1903.

Eye Safety Standards Introduced

The first safety standards for protective eyewear were implemented in the United States in 1938, setting recommendations for design and use.

Laser Eye Injury Awareness

With the rise of lasers in industry and medicine during the 1980s, campaigns to prevent laser-induced eye injuries gained prominence.

NIOSH Eye Safety Program

The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) initiated an eye safety program to prevent work-related eye injuries in 2000.

Focus on Digital Eye Strain

Given the increased use of digital devices, emphasis was placed on preventing digital eye strain and related injuries in 2021.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate Eye Injury Prevention Month

Schedule an eye exam

The best way to prevent eye injuries is to make sure your eyes are healthy. Schedule an eye exam with your optometrist to check for any potential issues and ensure that your vision is up to date.

WEAR

Wear protective eyewear

If you participate in any activities that could potentially cause eye injuries, make sure to wear proper protective eyewear. This includes sports, DIY projects, and even cooking.

EDUCATE

Educate others

Spread awareness about the importance of eye injury prevention by educating others. Share tips and information on social media, or host a workshop or seminar at your local community center or school.

ORGANIZE

Organize a fundraiser

Raise funds for organizations that support eye injury prevention and research. You can host a charity event, donate a portion of your sales, or set up a fundraising page to gather donations from friends and family.

CREATE

Create an eye safety checklist

Make a list of all the potential hazards for eye injuries in your home, workplace, or recreational activities. Use this checklist to make sure you are taking all necessary precautions and make any necessary changes to improve safety.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why Eye Injury Prevention Month is Important

It's an opportunity to spread awareness

Many people may not be aware of the potential hazards that could lead to an eye injury. By recognizing Eye Injury Prevention Month, we can educate others on how to protect their eyes and potentially prevent accidents from occurring in the future.

Protecting your vision is crucial

We often take our eyes for granted, but they are incredibly important - helping us navigate the world around us. By promoting eye injury prevention during this month, we can raise awareness about the importance of protecting our sight from potential hazards.

Prevention is better than cure

Eye injuries can have serious consequences and can even result in permanent loss of vision. By taking preventative measures and promoting safe practices during Eye Injury Prevention Month, we can help reduce the number of avoidable accidents.

Related holidays

Sports Eye Safety Month

Don't let an eye injury bench you - October is Sports Eye Safety Month, so make sure to protect your peepers while playing your favorite sports!

Sports Eye Safety Awareness Month

"Don't let a sports-related eye injury ruin your game. Be proactive and celebrate Sports Eye Safety Awareness Month with us!"

Workplace Eye Wellness Month

An awareness observance in March promoting eye health and workplace safety through protective measures and regular eye exams.

National Eye Care Month

Don't turn a blind eye to your vision - join us in raising awareness and promoting healthy habits during National Eye Care Month!

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