Racket sports. An ocular hazard.

Eighty-two injuries secondary to the racket sports were studied during a 15-month period. Ordinary glasses provided considerable protection in the play of tennis and badminton, but not in the play of squash and racquet ball. Plastic safety lenses (USA Standard Practice for Occupational and Educational Eye ,nd Face Protection, approved Sept 18, 1968 by the USA Standards Institute [ANSI Z87.1-1968]) mounted in a sturdy frame (industrial or athletic) or an eye protector are necessary for squash and racquet ball. Contact lenses provide no ocular protection. Males suffered more serious injuries than females, but injuries were not related to the age or experience of the players. Eye protection is recommended for the racket sports.