I think they think this will save them money on optician bills, however fairly obvious that it wont

From: [log in to unmask] [mailto:[log in to unmask]] On Behalf Of Huguenel, Tracy
Sent: 02 March 2010 14:41
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: [OCC-HEALTH] DSE eye tests

Here we go again! Having a small discussion with one of our contracts, as they have kindly revamped their policy advising all DSE users that they must attend OH for a preliminary eye screen or they will not be reimbursed for their opticians eye tests and cost of any glasses required, without input from OH.

Seems to me this in breach of Reg 5, I am going mad? Employee are not obliged to have an eye test under the DSE regs, but the employer is obliged to pay for eye test if the employee does want one. The eye and eyesight test must be carried out by someone with an opthamic qualification, the employer can offer as an 'extra' vision screening - a basis eye screen carried out by a nurse with a basic understanding of the eye.

Our company are telling their employee they will not be refunded if they do not have the vision screen first, is this legal?

Many thanks,

Tracy Huguenel, RGN, SCPHN (OH)
Deputy Head of Occupational Health
F Block Nurses Campus
Basildon and Thurrock University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
Nethermayne
Basildon
SS16 5NP
0845 155 3111 Ext 3982 / 3591
Fax 01268 534127 

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