Eye test
Today, we will go through the eye test requirements and how to ensure you pass your medical.
The general vision standard for normal vehicles drivers is that they must be able to read a number plate from 20 meters away. However, there are many more specific rules when it comes to how well a driver can see.
Car eye test requirement
Vision is usually measured using a Snellen chart. To put it in perspective, it is important to know that regular drivers need to have the vision of 6/12 with both eyes open or 6/12 if there is loss of vision from one eye. This can be with glasses or contact lenses, if needed.
HGV Driver eye test requirement
HGV drivers, on the other hand, should have a visual acuity of at least 6/7.5 in one eye and 6/60 in the other on the Snellen scale.
They are permitted to use glasses or contacts to meet this measure, but the corrective power should not be more than (+) 8 dioptres for glasses, whereas contacts do not have a corrective limit. It is crucial that a driver has a horizontal visual field of at least 160 degrees, the extension being 70 degrees left and right, and 30 degrees up and down.
There should be no defects present within a centre radius of 30 degrees. If you have any eyesight problems that might affect either eye, you may still be able to renew your HGV license, but this would be after a visual field test done by the DVLA and they deem you fit to drive.
How it works
It is good practice for employers of HGV drivers should check licenses and record eyesight assessments every so often. These inspections should be required for any new employee prior to allowing them to operate a company vehicle. Checks should take place every twelve months to make sure that all employees are fit to drive.
Passing or failing
A lot of drivers can have issues with meeting the requirements for their eyesight. This normally is because their eyesight has deteriorated, and they have not realised. It is important that employers react appropriately to any eyesight tests needed. Hence why we recommend an annual eye test for drivers. If a driver fails the company eyesight checking test, their employer would require them to go see an optician in order for them to undergo proper testing and be prescribed the eyesight assistance that they need. The optometrist will also provide a report that will be used as insight for employers and a prescription to see the measurement of the number of dioptres required to meet the standard.
Incidents
It is strongly advised that employers complete an eyesight check after any minor collisions or traffic problems. If a complaint was filed against a particular employee about their driving, you will need to look into it to ensure that their driving will remain regulatory following any incidents as well.
You want to be able to ensure that any incidents that might occur are not due to eyesight deterioration, as this might cause more issues in the long run. It’s important to avoid waiting until employees damage your company’s or other peoples property. As a business, you should look to improve road safety and ensure that your insurance provider will not have any reason to turn down a claim. It also forms as part of the FORS criteria of due diligence if you are aiming for the gold standard.
At Vital Medicals we offer a wide range of services including an annual review of your drivers to ensuring they are fit to drive.
If you want to learn more about HGV Medical Exams, Vital Medicals is here to help. Get in touch with us today for a free consultation or visit our corporate page.
