Reimbursement of prescription safety glasses in 2025

An employer must ensure the safety and health of its employees. When employees are at risk of exposure to substances or materials that can release splinters or loose particles while working, it is important that they wear appropriate eye protection, in the form of safety glasses. But what about a prescription safety glasses and the employer's compensation in 2025?

Does the employer have to reimburse prescription safety glasses?

The answer is yes. In the context of occupational safety and health, an employer is obliged to ensure the best working conditions. This includes taking measures to address hazards at source and minimizing exposure to risks. If these measures are not feasible, the employer must provide personal protective equipment, such as safety glasses.

Source: Article 3 Working Conditions Act

Assessment via RI&E

Before prescription safety glasses are reimbursed, the employer must first assess whether other protective measures are sufficient. This is done by means of a risk inventory and evaluation (RI&E). If safety glasses are necessary for employee safety and other measures are not adequate, the employer must pay the costs of prescription goggles. reimburse. This highlights the importance of the employer's remuneration for safety glasses as an essential aspect of occupational safety.

What should be considered when wearing prescription safety glasses?

An important change will take effect in 2025: the current EN 166 standard remains valid for safety glasses that were certified before November 2025, but these glasses will lose their validity after their certification period (no later than 2030). Thereafter, the stricter NEN-EN-ISO 16321:2024 - standard mandatory.

The new standard harmonizes European and global standards and sets higher requirements for safety, durability and user comfort. Companies are advised to switch to glasses that comply with the NEN-EN-ISO 16321 standard in time.

Corporate customers

In 2025, employers will have a major responsibility to reimburse prescription safety glasses, both to protect the health of employees and to comply with the Working Conditions Act. Compliance with the correct standards, such as the new NEN-EN-ISO 16321 standard that replaces the EN 166 standard, is essential here.

Seeh, in cooperation with Hans Anders, offers expert advice and provides high-quality prescription safety glasses tailored specifically to the needs of the business market. Take today contact join us for free advice and find out how we can support your business.