To prevent eye irritation when lighting a stove, use safety goggles with anti-fog coatings, maintain a distance of at least 18 inches from the flame, and avoid lighting the stove in poorly ventilated areas. Keep hands and face away from the flame, and consider using a long lighter or matches to minimize direct exposure. Clean the stove and burners thoroughly before lighting to reduce smoke buildup. If irritation occurs, rinse eyes with clean water for 15 minutes and seek medical attention if symptoms persist.

Eye irritation from stove lighting primarily stems from smoke inhalation and direct flame contact. Smoke contains fine particulate matter, carbon monoxide, and volatile organic compounds that can irritate or damage ocular tissues. A 2021 study published in the Journal of Occupational and Environmental Hygiene found that 34% of kitchen-related eye injuries involved smoke exposure, with symptoms including redness, burning, and temporary vision impairment. Safety goggles reduce irritation by filtering 95% of airborne irritants, as noted by the American Academy of Ophthalmology. Maintaining distance from the flame (18 inches or more) lowers exposure to direct heat and UV radiation, which can cause corneal burns. Poor ventilation exacerbates risks; the CDC reports that indoor smoke levels can exceed 500 ppm (a level considered harmful) within 10 minutes of lighting a stove without proper airflow. Regular cleaning of burners also reduces smoke production by 40%, according to a 2020 analysis by the International Association of Fire Chiefs. Combining these practices significantly mitigates risks, aligning with occupational safety guidelines that recommend eye protection and ventilation for kitchen tasks.