Workplace Standards · Section 31

Eye Tests

Employees who are "users" of display screen equipment (DSE) (also known as visual display units or VDUs) under the Health and Safety (Display Screen Equipment) Regulations 1992, have a legal right to…

Handbook 2024 v1.3

About this policy

1.1

1.2

By providing eye and eyesight tests, the employer aims to improve the comfort, job satisfaction and performance of employees, by allowing the identification and correction of visual defects and thereby helping to prevent eye strain, fatigue, stress and headaches.

Definition of a DSE user

2.1

A person is a DSE user if the following criteria apply:

(a)

the individual normally uses DSE for continuous or near-continuous spells of an hour or more at a time;

(b)

the individual uses DSE this way on a daily basis;

(c)

fast transfer of information between the user and screen is an important requirement of the job; and

(d)

the individual depends on the use of DSE to do their job; the individual has no discretion over the use of DSE; the individual needs significant training and/or particular skills in the use of DSE to do their job; or the performance requirements of the system demand high levels of attention and concentration, for example where the consequences of error may be critical.

Scheme

3.1

Any Display Screen Equipment User is able to request an eye test if they believe the use of Display Screen Equipment is affecting their eyesight.

3.2

The user should make their request to their Line Manager, using the application form (Available from HR). If the Line Manager confirms the member of staff is a 'User' then they should countersign the form to approve it.

3.3

DSE users may be eligible for free eye tests and financial help with the cost of glasses, if the glasses are required to be worn in order for you to use the computer or DSE.

3.4

Employees may make their own arrangements with a registered ophthalmic optician or registered medical practitioner with suitable qualifications, and the cost will be reimbursed by the employer on receipt of written confirmation from the examining optician that the eye and eyesight test has been carried out.

3.5

SY Plus Limited will contribute £40 towards the cost of an eye test and basic lenses or frames. You may, of course, pay any additional amounts yourself for more expensive lenses or frames.

3.6

For reimbursement of costs, please follow our expense procedure.

Additional Points

4.1

It is important for you to take regular breaks from using display screen equipment. You should advise your Line Manager if you believe that your workstation, display screen equipment, or work routines are causing you problems with your eyesight.

4.2

Please see further notes in our Health & Safety policy or speak to the Health & Safety team.