Eye tests and glasses at work

[gremio]

Hi

I have been working for about 6 years at my current design company, using VDU screens all day - in that time Ive noticed my eyesight get a bit worse, so Im of for an eye test.

My boss says that they will pay for the test but not specs if I need them

This

http://www.hmrc.gov.uk/budget2006/bn31.htm

suggests otherwise.

Any advice?

regards

Stephen

[furrycheeky]

2. Employers are required by law to provide, or meet the cost of, eyecare tests and/or corrective glasses for VDU use for their employees.

I think the key is in the "and/or bit".

Take the and out and you get 2. Employers are required by law to provide, or meet the cost of, eyecare tests or corrective glasses for VDU use for their employees.


So it means the employer can either pay for the tests ot the glasses. Obviously they are only paying for the cheaper test.

[Ethel]

Only if you need glasses solely for VDU work:

VDU users are entitled to a free eye test:
a) When taking up employment
b) Every two years as an existing user
c) If you experience visual difficulties which could be caused by work on a VDU

The employer has a duty to inform you of your rights under the Regulations. The eye test will determine whether you need spectacles solely for VDU work - in which case the company must comply and provide remedial spectacles. However, most firms will only pay for basic spectacles or up to a fixed limit

[KenR]

I work for the government and have glasses for vdu work. We need to get an optition to agree and sign a form that you need the glasses solely for VDU work and that is a tricky one. Vey few folks need them for VDU and not reading etc. If the optition agrees you need them then all we get reimbursed for is the basic frames (by basic they mean the �9 style) and single uncoated unanythinged-fancy lenses.
Some employers may give more or be more leniant, but that is all government employees get. If you can get more than that don't knock it.