Fact Check: Are VDU glasses prescription?

Are VDU Glasses Prescription?

The claim in question is whether VDU (Visual Display Unit) glasses are considered prescription glasses. This inquiry arises from the increasing prevalence of computer use in workplaces and the associated eye strain that some employees experience. The discussion surrounding VDU glasses often includes their necessity, the legal obligations of employers, and the specifics of their prescription requirements.

What We Know

1. Legal Requirements for Eye Tests: According to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) in the UK, employers are required to arrange eye tests for employees who use display screen equipment (DSE) if requested. If the eye test indicates that glasses are necessary solely for DSE use, the employer must provide them 1.

2. Definition of VDU Glasses: VDU glasses are designed to reduce eye strain associated with prolonged computer use. They can be tailored to an individual's prescription needs, particularly for those who already wear corrective lenses 3.

3. Employer Responsibilities: Employers are obligated to cover the cost of glasses needed specifically for DSE work. However, this coverage typically extends only to basic frames and single-vision lenses, not to glasses required for other tasks like reading or driving 47.

4. Eye Examination Protocols: The College of Optometrists outlines that a comprehensive eye examination should be conducted to determine the specific needs of employees working with display screen equipment. This includes assessing the workstation and providing appropriate advice 6.

5. Types of Lenses: VDU glasses can include specialized lenses that help with intermediate vision, which is essential for viewing screens comfortably. This is sometimes referred to as an "intermediate addition power" in prescriptions 9.

Analysis

Source Evaluation

• Health and Safety Executive (HSE): The HSE is a reputable government agency in the UK that provides guidelines and regulations regarding workplace safety. Their information is generally reliable, though it may have a bias towards promoting workplace safety standards 1.

• Specsavers and Bluefin Vision: Both sources provide insights into the nature of VDU glasses and their prescription requirements. Specsavers is a well-known optical retailer, which may have a commercial interest in promoting eye care services, potentially introducing bias. Bluefin Vision, while informative, also operates in the optical industry, which could influence their presentation of VDU glasses as essential 34.

• College of Optometrists: This professional body offers clinical guidance and is a credible source for information on eye health and examinations. Their guidelines are based on clinical best practices, which adds to their reliability 6.

• Safeworkers: This source discusses employer obligations regarding prescription glasses for VDU use. While informative, it is important to note that it may cater to a specific audience concerned with workplace safety, which could introduce a slight bias towards emphasizing employer responsibilities 78.

Conflicting Information

While many sources agree that VDU glasses can be prescription glasses, the specifics of what constitutes a "VDU prescription" and the legal obligations of employers can vary. For example, while HSE states that employers must provide glasses for DSE use, the extent of this obligation (e.g., type of lenses covered) can differ based on individual circumstances and interpretations of the law 147.

Methodological Considerations

The evidence presented primarily comes from guidelines and recommendations rather than empirical studies directly comparing the effectiveness of VDU glasses versus standard prescription glasses. More robust data, such as studies measuring eye strain reduction among users of VDU glasses, would strengthen the understanding of their necessity and efficacy.

Conclusion

Verdict: True

The claim that VDU glasses are considered prescription glasses is supported by evidence indicating that they can be tailored to individual prescription needs, particularly for those who require correction for display screen use. The Health and Safety Executive mandates that employers provide glasses necessary for DSE work if indicated by an eye test, reinforcing the notion that VDU glasses can indeed be classified as prescription glasses.

However, it is important to note that the legal obligations regarding the type of lenses provided may vary, and not all VDU glasses are necessarily prescribed for every individual. The evidence primarily consists of guidelines and recommendations rather than empirical studies, which limits the ability to draw definitive conclusions about the overall effectiveness of VDU glasses compared to standard prescription glasses.

Readers are encouraged to critically evaluate the information presented and consider their specific needs and circumstances when assessing the necessity of VDU glasses.

Sources

1. Health and Safety Executive (HSE). Working safely with display screen equipment. Link
2. HMRC. NIM02145 - Class 1 NICs: Earnings of employees and ... Link
3. Bluefin Vision. VDU Glasses: Your Eyes' Digital Guardian. Link
4. Specsavers UK. VDU (Visual Display Units). Link
5. Specsavers UK. Working with display units (DSE or VDU). Link
6. College of Optometrists. Examining patients who work with display screen equipment or computers. Link
7. Safeworkers. Do Employers Have to Pay For Prescription Safety Glasses? Link
8. Safeworkers. VDU Glasses & Work Related Eye Strain. Link
9. Eyekit. Understanding Your Prescription. Link
10. uvex. VDU spectacles frame uvex RX 3120. Link