A near-total solar eclipse will occur on April 8, 2024, between 2 p.m. and 4:30 p.m., with the peak occurring at 3:19 p.m. in Toronto. This will be an exciting and unique event, but it brings with it potential health and safety risks for any workers or students required to be outdoors.

Looking directly at the sun for any length of time is very hazardous to the eyes – it can impact your vision and cause permanent damage. In addition to the eye hazards, it may get darker outdoors as the eclipse approaches totality – this limited visibility can pose a safety hazard.

If you are a worker or student who may be outdoors during this event:

• Do not look up at the sun. The eclipse can only safely be viewed through proper viewing glasses that comply with the International Standard ISO 12312-2 (2015). Sunglasses will not provide adequate protection.
• If using solar eclipse glasses, take them off when not viewing the eclipse and be aware of any obstacles around you, as the eclipse glasses are very dark.
• As it may get darker outdoors, exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings.

If you are a supervisor of outdoor workers, or an instructor for an outdoor class, consider the following:

• Adjust break times and the timing of outdoor activities to avoid the eclipse (any activity that is scheduled between 2 p.m. and 4:30 p.m.). Re-consider non-essential outdoor work and travel.
• If necessary, provide employees and students with appropriate eyewear that complies with the International Standard ISO 12312-2 (2015).
• Provide shaded areas for employees and students and plan for limited visibility as the eclipse approaches totality.
• Ensure workers and students are aware of the potential eye hazards, as well as the non-eye hazards (i.e. limited visibility), during the event.

Together, we can ensure that this exciting event is experienced safely. For more information, please email healthandsafety@humber.ca.