Does My Employer Have To Pay For My Glasses If I Need Them Specifically For Screen Work?

              

Does My Employer Have To Pay For My Glasses If I Need Them Specifically For Screen Work?

In the UK, there are rules that require employers to look after the eye health of employees who spend a lot of time working on screens, like computers or tablets. If an eye test shows you need glasses specifically for screen use, your employer must pay for them. However, if you need glasses for other everyday activities, like driving or reading, or if you already have a prescription that works for you, your employer doesn’t have to cover those costs.

Key Points to Remember

• Legal Requirements: The rules are set out in the Health and Safety (Display Screen Equipment) Regulations 1992. These regulations require employers to ensure their employees' health and safety when working with screen equipment. This means they must provide free eye tests and contribute to the cost of glasses specifically for screen use.
• What Employers Need to Provide: Employers generally have to pay for a basic pair of glasses with lenses for screen use. Many employers go beyond this minimum requirement and offer extra help if employees want more advanced or fancy glasses.
• Who Counts as a DSE User: A DSE user is anyone who spends a lot of time—specifically, at least an hour continuously—using electronic devices like computers or tablets. This helps determine who is eligible for eye care benefits.
• When Employers Don’t Have to Help: There are situations in which employers are not required to help. For example, if an employee already has glasses that work well for screen use, the employer doesn't have to pay for new ones. Also, self-employed people don’t receive these benefits because they are responsible for their own equipment and health.

If you think you need glasses for your screen work, don't hesitate to talk to your employer. Ask for an eye test voucher and explain that you need glasses for working with screens. This will start the process for you to get the support you need.