It will be shown that employers are subject to EEOC violations under ADA 1990 if they discriminate against the contact lens wearer. It will be shown that there is no evidence which would prevent the employer from authorizing the use of contact lenses in the chemical workplace as an accommodation to workers to fulfill their essential functions. In the average academic laboratory, eye protection is by safety glasses, and lab aprons protect the body. Although the instructor is covered by 29 CFR 1910.1450, which cites ANSI Standard Z87.1, the students are not. As a result, the most common eye wear used by students is safety glasses with side shields, and not goggles, when working with liquids that could have an injurious effect on the eye.
Students wear lab aprons while the instructor often wears a labcoat.
The presentation will cover independent surveys of laboratories and the common problems that can occur due to unsatisfactory personal protective equipment. A survey of the audience will be taken to determine their recommendations for protective equipment in their laboratories. The author will also discuss the amount of information given to students on the hazards of the chemicals they work with. Kenneth P. Fivizzani , Nalco Chemical Co., One Nalco Center, Naperville, IL 60563. As safety professionals, part of our job is to communicate the details of accidents or incidents that have occurred within our own orgainizations or elsewhere.