Hi, looking at the DSE Regs, we are looking at the cost of tests and the provision of glasses. I have been asked if we have to pay for the glasses worn by the users (possible cost cutting exercise). The below statement is from the guidance, para 81. "DSE Regulations will be those appliances prescribed to correct vision defects at the viewing distance or distances used specifically for the display screen work concerned". My question is, if the person requires the glasses for other types of close up work (non work related), would the company still have to pay as the user would require the glasses for out of work use and would probably have already paid for them? I don't want to get into a debate on moral issues and being tight with the purse strings etc, as like most members, I am cog in a bigger wheel and sometimes we have to choose our battles carefully. Thanks

I would counsel a little caution on the advice from the optician who at the end of the day wants to sell a pair of specs. When the regulations first came into effect I was working in an organisation of 3500 employees all classed as "users". I was able to tell whether spectacles were recommended or not simply by looking to see who the optician was, NOT by looking at the report!! Martyn

This from L26: "These may include situations where the user is required to mix their DSE tasks with other tasks (for example dealing with people) which require a different viewing distance. If the user would repeatedly have to change from one pair of spectacles to another to cope with this, a pair with multiple-focus lenses might be a solution". I think it unrealistic to be providing a free pair of single-vision specs in that circumstance. Having said that, I think Regulation 5 of the DSE Regs (and parent Directive) should be revoked. There is no risk basis for this provision. Whilst an employer deciding not to provide would be taking a bold step, and would be in breach of Statute, there may be some of us who would see them as a vanguard for change. This is the kind of issue Messrs Cameron, Clegg and Cable should be focussing (pardon the pun) on, not crowing about the revocation of some sets of dusty celluliod film regulations.

Indeed, we are on shaky ground to "second guess" a registered optahmist/opticians advice! They are bound by their own code of practice from their professional body. Also, some of the "voucher" service providers for DSE eyetests such as specsavers INCLUDE the cost of a "basic pair of corrective appliances" in the cost of the eyetest voucher! There is no need for the employer to spend additional amount even if the prescription has spectacles for DSE use.

We buy the more expensive optical care vouchers because they allow for an upgrade of pre-existing lenses (such as bifocals) to add in DSE requirements. These cost £35 per voucher. We do not have millions of staff but we have found that quibbling over this is not worthwhile. However, this thread did remind me that I need a voucher for an eyetest so I sorted that this morning. As I got the HR Manager to authorise it (doesn't do to authorise your own), she recalled she needed one too, so this thread has been very useful - thanks!

Your post in turn reminded me of one of the real bugbears of using vouchers for the whole regulatory "entitlement" regime - it frequently becomes a case of "I want one too" - irrespective of any actual vision issues!

If the employee requires them under DSE Regs, then the employer has to provide them.

The Regulations state specifically "provide", Bob - although that has a broad meaning.