Posted By Geoff Burt In a recent posting it was put forward that close work can damage eyesight. I have always accepted HSE statements that DSE work does not damage eyesight but makes defects in vision more apparent. From that I have assumed other close work results in the same effect. Does close work damage eyesight? If so could someone point me in the right direction to obtain more information? If it does cause damage will HSE need to have another look at their guidance? Geoff

Posted By John Ridd I am no medic nor opthalmologist, but my understanding is that there is only evidence for long term 'damage' to the eyes from close work (e.g. reading) if the exposure is significant during the periods when the eyesight mechanisms are developing (primarily in our childhood and youth). As yet there is no evidence to link extended office based screen viewing with any long term effect; but who knows what the epidemiology might reveal in another ten year's time?