This policy applies to employees who use display screen equipment (DSE) daily for continuous periods of an hour or more, including home and hybrid workers, and to employees who are about to become DSE users in their role.

 

The Health and Safety (Display Screen Equipment) Regulations 1992, as amended, allow new or existing users of DSE to request an eye and eyesight test by a qualified Ophthalmic Optician at the expense of the employer.

 

An employer is also required to provide further eye and eyesight tests on request at reasonably regular intervals to any employee defined as a ‘user’ under the above Regulations.

 

If any test shows that special glasses (other than those normally worn by the user) are required for use with DSE, then the employer must provide them.

 

DSE work does not cause permanent damage to eyes. But long spells of DSE work can lead to:

  • tired eyes
  • discomfort
  • temporary short-sightedness
  • headaches

 

DSE work is visually demanding, so it can make someone aware of eyesight problems they have not noticed before (including changes in eyesight that happen with age).

Employees can help their eyes by:

  • checking the screen is well positioned and properly adjusted
  • making sure lighting conditions are suitable
  • taking regular breaks from screen work

 

An annual DSE workstation assessment will be carried out and any steps to reduce any health risks will be undertaken. This includes home workers and other employees who use DSE away from the office where applicable.

 

Procedure

To control the cost and manner in which St Stephen in Brannel Parish Council complies with this Regulation requirements, the following procedure has been implemented –

 

Eligibility

Employees wishing to establish whether they are entitled to an eye and eyesight test should first discuss the matter with their Line Manager to ascertain whether they meet the criteria set out in the Health & Safety (Display Screen Equipment) Regulations. Eligibility should be based on the nature and frequency of DSE use, including any home or hybrid working arrangements.

 

Sight Tests

Employees who are classed as DSE users or will soon become DSE users in their role should book an eye and eyesight test with a reputable optician and obtain a receipt for the cost of the test. Eye tests should take place outside of an employee’s working hours. If an eye test is scheduled for during an employee’s working hours, employees must agree this in advance with their Line Manager. Where possible, employees should obtain prior approval before booking.

 

Glasses/Contact Lenses

Employees may also claim up to £75 towards the cost of corrective glasses, provided the eye test shows that the employee needs special glasses prescribed for the distance the screen is viewed at. Employees must obtain a certificate from the optician stating that the prescription is for DSE work only and submit this along with a receipt for the glasses with their expenses. Claims without a receipt and/or certificate will not be paid.

If an ordinary prescription is suitable, or the prescription is for general use and not specifically for DSE work, employees will not be reimbursed for the cost of glasses. Corrective contact lenses are not covered by this policy. Exceptional cases may be considered by the Clerk when supported by professional evidence

 

Reimbursement of Fees

The Council will reimburse the cost of a suitable eye and eyesight test when required under the DSE Regulations. Employees will be reimbursed for the cost of the eye test up to £35 by submitting an expense claim form, accompanied by the eye test receipt. Claims without a receipt will not be paid. Claims should be submitted within one month of the test date.

It is recommended that eye and eyesight tests are conducted every two years. If an employee who is a DSE user requires eye tests more frequently, this must be authorised by the Line Manager in advance of submitting a claim. More frequent testing may be approved where recommended by an optician or other relevant professional.

Any queries should be referred to the Clerk prior to making any appointments. The Clerk will keep this policy under review and ensure it is applied consistently.

 

[1] Adopted by Full Council at the meeting held on Wednesday 12th August 2026 under minute number FPC142/26. Due for review in August 2029.