At CapitalEyes Optometrists we provide Vision Care programmes to workplaces to ensure that people who work with VDUs (Visual Display Units) are visually comfortable. These programmes provide for a range of services from onsite vision screenings with follow up visits at our rooms when indicated, through to full eye examinations for all staff at our rooms.

The introduction of computers and VDUs in the workplace in the last 15 years has changed the nature of employment, the structure of jobs, work surroundings, and in many cases, the organisations themselves.

While in many cases this huge increase in VDU usage for employees has led to increased skills and efficiencies for businesses, it has also led to health concerns, particularly for employees' visual health.

Under the Health and Safety in Employment Act (1992) the operation of a computer (or VDU) is regarded as a potential "hazard" in the workplace. The guidelines issued by OSH and the Department of Labour outline minimum standard of care for users of VDUs, advise employers to provide a company policy to ensure that employees to do not experience any visual or ocular discomfort.

If your company does not have a vision care policy in place, then it runs the risk of being found in breach of the HSE Act should any complaint arise. A model vision care policy is suggested in the guidelines. The CapitalEyes Optometrists "Vision Care Programme" complies with the suggested model in the code of practice - contact us to find out more.