Employers have a vital role to play in ensuring drivers have routine eye examinations after data from Specsavers Corporate Eyecare shows that tests have saved 50 lives this year.

All of the 50 individuals were simply visiting their optician to have their eyesight checked. In each case, the eye examination led to the detection of a life-threatening condition, which was subsequently successfully treated.

Employees who use a computer screen, drive for work purposes or require PPE, should all be provided with eyecare, which leaves very few employees not covered.

While some may feel that their vision itself is not an issue, there are much wider benefits to eyecare. Digital retinal screening is an important element in preventative care and allows the optometrist to detect and monitor the many serious illnesses and health conditions, including diabetes, various heart conditions, cancers of the eye (such as melanomas), brain tumours, high cholesterol, detached retina, hypertension (high blood pressure), and glaucoma.

The benefits are felt by the employer too, with the Office of National Statistics stating, for example, that 500,000 working days are lost each year through heart, blood pressure and circulation problems.

Jim Lythgow, head of strategic alliances at Specsavers Corporate Eyecare, said: "Virtually every employee is entitled to company-funded eyecare under health and safety regulations. The number of lives saved by routine eye examinations just goes to show how vital it is for employers to provide this benefit and for employees to make use of the provision."

November is safety month for Fleet News, coinciding with Brake’s road safety week. Look out for our two themed issues: November 12 and November 26, plus content on our website.

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