Lessons to be learned on safety eyewear selection

The study, carried out this summer by Specsavers Corporate Eyecare, also revealed that 20% believe eyewear can be specified by an occupational health manager, while 16% said the employee can do this. Four in ten (42%) correctly responded that a qualified health and safety manager alone can specify this PPE for employees. When it comes to impact, normal spectacles are sufficient for low-impact protection, although more than half of those surveyed erred on the side of caution and said normal eyewear was never sufficient – meaning businesses may be funding unnecessary eyewear. Comfort and fit are crucial for safety eyewear. Specsavers says that more than one-third (36%) of employees who wear spectacles for day-to-day use are not provided with prescription safety glasses, but are instead expected to use over goggles. These are not suitable for long-term or regular use due to the physical discomfort of wearing two sets of eyewear and the light refraction caused by two sets of lenses. Jim Lythgow, director of strategic alliances for Specsavers Corporate Eyecare, said: "Most health and safety managers at least know what they don't know about safety eyewear and, as professionals, will seek advice and further information. It is clear from our research, however, that further education is required and that this would both reduce the risk to employees' eyesight and may also be financially beneficial for the employer." Health and safety professionals from 143 companies – both private and public sector – responded to the survey.