Eye tests. Essential in today’s digital age.

Too much time spent close to your phone and computer screen has implications for the health of your eyes. This may be unavoidable as everyday life is becoming increasingly digitised. But there are steps you can take to minimise long term consequences. 

VDU and DSE: What’s the difference? 

Nothing. VDUs (Video Display Units) and DSEs (Display Screen Equipment) both refer to devices that have a screen that can display text, graphics and other visual content. They include computer monitors, laptops, touch screens, mobile phones and other similar equipment. 

The Health and Safety (Display Screen Equipment) Regulations categorise workers who use DSEs daily for long periods of an hour or more as ‘DSE users’.  

Fact: Screen time affects your health 

Poor viewing habits and long spells of screen use can lead to tired eyes and discomfort. Headaches can also occur from causes such as screen glare, poor image quality, a need for different spectacles, stress from the pace of work and looking at screens for long periods without taking a break. This can also affect your posture. And by giving your eyes more demanding tasks, you may become more aware of an eyesight problem you had not noticed before. 

Fortunately, there is no evidence to suggest screens cause permanent damage to eyes or eyesight. But it is recommended you break up long spells with breaks. 

Here’s what you can do 

If you’re concerned about your screen time, there’s an easy first step – book yourself in for an eye test so we can help devise a plan for you.

Is most of your screen time at work? If so, talk to your employer as they have a legal responsibility to protect you from associated health risks by ensuring you can comfortably see the screen and work effectively without visual fatigue. 

If you request an eye test, your employer is required to provide one. If the eye test shows that you need glasses specifically for screen work, your employer must pay for a basic pair of frames and lenses.

Some employers will let you arrange a test for yourself and provide the bill while others may prefer to organise it themselves, sending several members of staff to be tested by one optician.

Are you an employer?

If so, we recommend you contact a number of opticians to make sure you get a competitive rate. Ask the optician if they will come to you to carry out the eye tests. Your staff are entitled to further tests at regular intervals after the first test if screen work is considered to cause them ongoing visual fatigue.

Talk to us, we’re here to help. Call 01661 832564 or drop in for an initial assessment.