Workers unaware of eye test rights

Workers are unaware of their eye test rights at work

More than a third of workers are not aware of their legal right to a free eye test, while some are too afraid to ask their boss, according to a new report.

A survey of 2,100 adults by the College of Optometrists showed that one in five were "uncomfortable" about asking their employer for an eye examination.

Two thirds had never asked for an eye test, with 7% saying there was "no point" because their boss would refuse.

Dr Rob Hogan, president of the College of Optometrists, said: "While computers may not damage your eyesight, they can make already existing problems more uncomfortable.

"This can include making it difficult to focus or concentrate or causing headaches, blurriness or tiredness. If you work at a computer, you're entitled to ask your employer to provide an eye examination free of charge, and people shouldn't feel uncomfortable or afraid about asking.

"If you need glasses to work at the computer, your employer is also obliged to help you towards costs."