Eye Care for Bakersfield’s Agricultural Workers: Safety, UV Protection & Injury Prevention

Sep 23, 2025

Agriculture is at the heart of Bakersfield’s economy, with thousands of residents working in the fields every day. While farm work is rewarding and essential, it also exposes workers to unique eye health risks. From long hours under the sun to constant exposure to dust, pesticides, and machinery, agricultural workers face challenges that can threaten both eye comfort and long-term vision.

At Li & Liao Optometry, we’re dedicated to protecting the vision of Bakersfield’s farming community. Here’s what you need to know about common risks and how to protect your eyes on the job.

Common Eye Risks in Agriculture

UV Exposure from the Sun

Farmers often spend long hours outdoors, making UV protection critical. Prolonged UV exposure increases the risk of cataracts, macular degeneration, and painful sunburn on the eyes (photokeratitis).

Dust, Debris, and Allergens

Plowing, harvesting, and working in dry fields stir up dust and plant particles that can irritate the eyes. Dust can also scratch the surface of the eye, leading to pain and possible infection.

Chemicals and Pesticides

Agricultural chemicals pose a significant hazard if they splash into the eyes or if workers are exposed to drifting sprays. Chemical burns can cause permanent damage if not treated immediately.

Heat and Dehydration

Hot Bakersfield summers can worsen dry eye symptoms by speeding up tear evaporation, leaving eyes feeling gritty, itchy, and fatigued.

Machinery and Tools

Flying particles from equipment or sharp tools increase the risk of traumatic eye injuries. Even a minor accident can have lasting consequences if the eye is unprotected.

Protective Steps for Agricultural Workers

Wear Proper Safety Eyewear

Protective glasses or goggles designed for agricultural work can shield the eyes from dust, debris, and chemicals. Look for:

Wraparound safety glasses with side protection
Impact-resistant lenses (ANSI Z87.1 certified)
Chemical splash goggles when handling pesticides or fertilizers

Choose Sunglasses with UV Protection

Sunglasses labeled 100% UV protection or UV400 should be part of every farm worker’s gear. Polarized lenses help reduce glare while driving tractors or working near reflective surfaces.

Take Breaks and Stay Hydrated

Regular hydration helps prevent dry eye. Taking short breaks indoors or in shaded areas also gives the eyes relief from heat and sun exposure.

Practice Good Hygiene

Wash your hands before touching your eyes or handling contact lenses to reduce the risk of irritation and infection from dust, chemicals, or plant matter.

First-Aid for Eye Injuries

Knowing how to respond quickly can make all the difference:

Dust or small particles: Rinse the eye gently with clean water or saline solution. Avoid rubbing the eye, as this can cause scratches.
Chemical splashes: Flush the eye with clean water immediately for at least 15 minutes. Remove contact lenses if present, and seek medical care right away.
Blunt trauma or cuts: Do not apply pressure. Cover the eye lightly with a clean cloth or shield and get emergency medical help

Never attempt to remove embedded objects yourself — professional care is essential to prevent further damage.

Eye Exams for Agricultural Workers

Even with protective steps, agricultural workers should schedule regular eye exams. Routine checkups allow our team at Li & Liao Optometry to:

Detect early signs of sun-related damage
Treat dry eye or allergy symptoms
Ensure safety eyewear prescriptions are up to date
Provide guidance on protective gear tailored to your work environment

Protecting Bakersfield’s Farming Community

Agricultural work is essential to Bakersfield’s way of life, and protecting the vision of our local workers is just as important. With the right gear, good habits, and professional care, you can prevent many common eye injuries and keep your vision strong for years to come.

If you’re an agricultural worker in Bakersfield, schedule an appointment with Li & Liao Optometry today. Our team is here to keep your eyes safe, healthy, and ready for the work you do every day.