VDU use & eyecare benefit

jc2008

Hi,

Recently started in a large MNC (graduate position).

Noticed my eyes getting strained so booked an eye test. Optician said getting glasses for use at a computer would help - wouldn't need them at any other time.

I've just noticed that our company's HR have a policy where they give out vouchers for free eye tests and this would also cover glasses if it was shown they were needed for VDU use only.

As I paid for eye test and glasses together, is there any way I can claim this back?

Stheno

Ask them?

jc2008

Stheno wrote: »

Ask them?

I just wanted to get an idea of whether I am entitled to claim before I emailed them on Monday!

Mrs OBumble

Your only legal entitlement is to be made aware that eye tests are available.

In my current gig, these tests are done by the occupational-health-specialist: if s/he suspects a problem, then you are referred to an optometerist / optician for proper assessment. Depending on your employment status, the only free part is the initial occ-health screening.

So I don't think you are entitled in general.

But your MNC may have policies that say you are, and have a procedure for dealing with cases where you paid a private person in advance of the company approach. The only way you can know is by asking.

Stheno

jc2008 wrote: »

I just wanted to get an idea of whether I am entitled to claim before I emailed them on Monday!

I'd suspect not as you didn't go via the company, they probably won't retrospectively refund you, as they probably have a corporate deal in place with whatever opticians they use

crosswords

You are entitled to a basic eye test every 2 years if you are a habitual vdu user.

Typically this would be worth around 20 to 25 euros.

If you require glasses which are solely for vdu use you are entitled to the cost of them also.

It is very unusual for someone to need glasses just for vdu only.

Hope this helps.

The_Conductor

Very interested in glasses for computer use.
Do you have a source for what you're suggesting?

Irish_Elect_Eng

http://www.hsa.ie/eng/Workplace_Health/Display_Screen_Equipment/Display_Screen_Equipment.html

http://www.irishhealth.com/article.html?con=604

I would say that your company will have no problem refunding you if you ask.

The company I work for does.

This is a H&S issue like many others and they will probably only glad that you took the initiative and resolved the issue before it became chronic and potentially had you out sick due to headaches etc,