Poor eyesight is a safety issue

Drivers with uncorrected defective vision are much more likely to be involved in an on-road collision, posing a significant safety risk to themselves and other road users. Even slightly substandard vision can mean drivers have slower reaction times and their ability to recognise hazards or judge speed suffers. It can also increase driver fatigue and impair the driver’s ability to cope with glare and driving in low light conditions.

Poor eyesight is a workforce retention issue

A Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request to the DVLA from Direct Line Insurance in 2020 found that over 7,000 motorists a year (134 per week) had their driving licence revoked because their vision didn’t meet the legal minimum standard. For employees whose roles require driving, licence loss can often mean job loss.

Poor eyesight is a productivity and service level issue

Poor vision can directly impact work performance. It can lead to reduced confidence and drivers looking to avoid going out in challenging conditions such as darkness or poor weather. A driver failing a roadside eyesight test could have their licence revoked immediately, requiring the employer to either recover the vehicle or send someone else out take over the vehicle and the workload.

Poor eyesight is a moral obligation for employers

Many drivers continue operating vehicles despite knowing or suspecting their vision has deteriorated, either because they haven’t had time for an eye test, can’t afford one, or fear losing their licence and livelihood. Employers have the opportunity to remove some of these barriers by providing accessible, funded eye tests and supporting employees who need glasses or contact lenses. Eye checks can also identify other serious conditions such as high blood pressure or diabetes, supporting employees’ wider health and wellbeing beyond just their fitness to drive.

Poor eyesight is a legal obligation for employers

Under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, employers must take all reasonable steps to protect employees while at work, including when driving for work. Ensuring drivers meet legal eyesight standards through regular testing is a reasonable and practicable control measure for any employer to implement. Regular screening can minimise risk by identifying issues early, enabling correction and keeping skilled drivers on the road.