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Working lenses for a better working life

Did you know that we spend an average of 3,515 days of our lives at work? For those of us who work in an office environment, this will usually mean sitting at a desk all day and working with multiple screens. From smartphones and tablets to the desktop monitor, our eyes are forced to work hard for several hours at a time, focussing at near and mid range distances. The load that this places on our visual system can result in a range of unpleasant symptoms from headaches, sore/dry eyes, blurred vision and postural issues.

Protecting your eyes at work

Fortunately, there are a whole range of occupational lenses that have been specifically designed for customers to wear at work. Created for different types of jobs, they aim to reduce fatigue, improve posture and reduce headaches and/or blurred vision. Just as running a long distance race would be more comfortable in a pair of specialist running shoes than a pair of stilettos, the right eyewear solution can transform the journey through your working day!

Each individual will require different occupational lenses depending on their prescription, their profession and the tasks they are required to perform. Our opticians can help you find a tailor made solution by discussing these individual requirements with you.

How are occupational lenses different from my standard lenses?

Occupational lenses are usually designed to prioritise intermediate and near vision, not distance vision. As they only have a maximum vision distance of up to four metres, they are not suitable for driving or outdoor activities. However, the wider and deeper intermediate and near areas they provide make them ideal for reading, writing or working at a computer.

Most designs of occupational lenses are set so that the main part of the lens provides clear vision at a mid range distance, whilst the lower part of the lens gives clear vision for reading and other close work tasks. Taking out the distance area of the lens enables the wearer to access the near vision zones comfortably and easily without having to adopt an uncomfortable head position. The deeper and wider viewing areas provided make them perfect for performing multiple tasks at a desk or work surface.

It is worth noting that most occupational lenses can be supplied with a blue light filter coating. This coating helps to absorb the high energy of blue light that radiates off technical devices. It reduces glare and helps to provide clearer vision and to reduce eye fatigue.

Out of office

Of course it is not only office workers who may struggle with vision at work. Many professions require the ability to view objects at specific distances or in unorthodox positions - for example plumbers, electricians, doctors and dentists.

Play Time

Occupational lenses can also be worn outside the workplace for hobbies and other interests, such as reading or playing music, crafting or model making. In fact, since modern life usually requires us to multi-task and to perform a range of dynamic close work tasks, they are ideal for anyone who requires a close work prescription!

If you have any questions about occupational lenses or want to book an eye test, visit https://www.haineandsmith.co.uk/ to find your local practice.

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