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Protective Eyewear Promotion

Applying Principles of Behaviour Change in the Design of a Squash Injury Prevention Programme

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Abstract

Eye injuries in squash have the potential to be severe. Although these injuries can be prevented through the use of protective eyewear, few players wear such eyewear. The aim of this paper is to outline the behavioural principles guiding the design of a squash eyewear promotion initiative, the Protective Eyewear Promotion (PEP). Ecological principles of behaviour change were used to provide a comprehensive perspective on intrapersonal factors, policies and physical environmental influences of protective eyewear use. Results of baseline player surveys and venue manager interviews were used to provide relevant and specific intervention content. At baseline, protective eyewear was not found to be readily available, and players’ behaviours, knowledge and attitudes did not favour its use. The main components of PEP involved informing and educating both players and squash venue operators of the risk of eye injury and of appropriate protective eyewear, as well as assisting with the availability of the eyewear and offering incentives for players to use it. A structural strength of PEP was the strong collaborative links with the researchers of different disciplines, the squash governing body, eyewear manufacturers, squash venue personnel, as well as players. Attempts were made within the project structure to make provision for the future dissemination and sustainability of more widespread eye injury prevention measures in the sport of squash.

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Acknowledgements

This study was funded by an NHMRC Translational Grant in Injury. Rochelle Eime was funded by an NHMRC Public Health Postgraduate Research Scholarship. The Victorian Metropolitan squash venues operators are thanked for their ongoing contribution to this research. Paul Vear from the Victorian Squash Federation is also thanked for his involvement in this project. Dunlop and IMAX Pty Ltd, are acknowledged for their partnership in this project. The authors have no conflicts of interest directly relevant to the content of this review.

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Correspondence to Caroline Finch.

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Eime, R., Owen, N. & Finch, C. Protective Eyewear Promotion. Sports Med 34, 629–638 (2004). https://doi.org/10.2165/00007256-200434100-00001

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