Research by Specsavers Corporate Eyecare shows that 44% of employers surveyed are concerned that some employees may have eyesight that is not adequate for driving.
Despite this, testing the eyesight of drivers is part of the driver policy for only one-third of respondents, while more than half (53%) of employers surveyed say they never test the eyesight of employees who drive.
Yet, 85% of employers asked said they had had their own eyesight tested within the last two years (the typical interval advised by optometrists).
Suzanne Randall, corporate account manager for Specsavers Corporate Eyecare, said: ‘It is revealing that so many employers hold concerns over their drivers’ eyesight and, therefore, over their safety.
“It may be that this is because they do not feel it is their place to intervene in what they may view as a personal matter – but this is simply not the case.
“Health and safety law applies to all work activities and clearly states that this includes driving for work purposes.”
akmartin@robert-hitchins.co.uk - 18/02/2015 14:40
Also if they suffer with glaucoma in both eyes they are required to inform DVLA via form V1 as my wife has just found out, and has had to be tested to see if she can retain her licence.