Eye and Eyesight Test Policy

In certain circumstances, employees who carry out display screen equipment (DSE) work (either office or home working) are entitled to ask their employer to provide them with a free eye test. Employers' responsibilities in relation to such tests are set out in reg.5 of the Health and Safety (Display Screen Equipment) Regulations 1992 (SI 1992/2792). The Regulations are designed to identify any sight defects that may need correcting when an employee works with DSE.

We recommend a policy is published to employees advising your company procedure, for example,  how to request a test, that they must use a suitably qualified Optometrist,  how the procedure works, and what your contributing costs will be.

Eligible employees should make a request for an eye and eyesight test via their Manager, using a request and record form.   By using a form to collate the information, the employer will be guided by the clinical judgment of the registered ophthalmic/optician as to the glasses requirement and to the frequency of repeat testing.

If, as a result of an eye test, an employee is found to need special corrective appliances for Display Screen Equipment (DSE) work, the employer is under an obligation to provide such appliances.  Employers must meet the costs of any eye test and any special glasses for DSE work. They can choose how to do this. For example, some employers issue special vouchers for use at a particular branch of opticians, while others allow employees to make their own arrangements and then reimburse them.

If an employee needs special glasses for DSE work, the employer is required to meet only the basic cost of the glasses; the employee is required to pay for any extras, such as designer frames or lenses with optional treatments that are not necessary for work. If an employee chooses glasses that can be used for purposes other than their work, the employer is required to meet only the costs attributable to the requirements of the job.

If you would like us to assist with a policy and procedure, please call us on 01473 276170, email us on info@sos-hr.co.uk or use our contact form .