Forthcoming Health & Safety Legal Requirement for Eyesight Tests for Drivers

Whilst most employers are aware of the legal requirement to provide eyesight tests for Display Screen Equipment (DSE) Users, very few will have considered the need to ensure that their employees who drive as part of their work can see clearly enough to drive safely. 

But that may be set to change as new legislation passed in the European Parliament in 2006 is due to be implemented  by member states in 2011. This new legislation could result in commercial drivers being required to have their eyes tested every 5 years, and private licence holders every 10-15 years. It is expected that eyesight tests may be required more frequently for those over 50, or with certain medical conditions.