With the increasing use of computers and digital devices in the modern work environment, eye strain and related issues have become more prevalent.
By implementing regular eye screening programs, employers can identify and address potential eye problems early on, preventing them from escalating into more serious conditions.
The law states employers must arrange an eye test for display screen equipment (DSE) users and provide glasses if an employee needs them only for DSE use.
DSE work does not cause permanent damage to eyes. But long spells of DSE work without the correct glasses can lead to:
- tired eyes
- errors at work
- discomfort
- headaches
An employer must provide an eyesight test for a DSE user. The employer must also pay for the test.
This should be a full eye and eyesight test by an optometrist, including a vision test and an eye examination.
Employers only have to pay for glasses for DSE work if the test shows an employee needs special glasses prescribed for the distance the screen is viewed at. (If only one prescription for general use also incorporates DSE Use employers do not have to pay for glasses).
What are the employer’s legal obligations?
Under the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974, the employer has a legal duty of care for the health, safety and wellbeing at work of all employees.
The HSE states that employers are responsible for “making sure that workers and others are protected from anything that may cause harm, effectively controlling any risks to injury or health that could arise in the workplace.”
In practice, your employer should provide you with:
- A safe working environment
- Sufficient training to ensure that you can safely carry out your role
- Appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), such as eye and face protection
- Regular risk assessments of your working environment
- Free annual eye tests
Employers are also responsible for homeworkers.
Wherever there is a risk of eye injury or eyestrain, your employer must, by law, provide you with appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to enable you to do your job safely.
Most situations where eye safety is an issue will require standard safety goggles. Safety glasses must be a wraparound design or have side shields.
If there is a risk of splashes to the eyes, you should be provided with chemical splash goggles. If chemical splashes risk injury to the skin, a full-face mask should be used.
You may work with power tools, such as angle grinders, and be exposed to flying debris. In this case, you should be given impact goggles by your employer.
EyePod, will advise and suggest solution to all these employer related issues.
Please, use the Employers Form to contact us for a no obligation discussion on how we can help you with your Employer requirements.
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