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Quite A Few More Occupations Than You Might Think Have Vision Restrictions. If You Are Thinking About A Change, It Is Worthwhile To Check Before You Fill In The Form

31st March, 2011 - Posted by health news - No Comments

Whilst trawling through some research in connection with investigation and mistyping a search query, I was sidetracked by a number of websites discussing how many occupations have vision limits for new recruits so I just had to read on and find out more. I’m certain that everyone can think of a few obvious careers where outstanding eyesight is essential. For example, the RAF has very stringent guidelines about who it will consider for pilot training, and defects will not be tolerated.

Naturally, we would all assume that jobs which involve driving or transporting passengers would need a decent degree of vision, and I’m pleased to confirm that this is absolutely right. But the thing I found more intriguing was the conditions laid down for what is and is not acceptable in terms of corrective lenses or selected surgical operations.

For example, a commercial pilot would not be prevented from seeking employment with an airline if he uses glasses to see clearly, but his vision problem if not using the glasses needs to be within the parameters required by the Civil Aviation Authority and he will have to have regular tests to keep a lookout for any degeneration. If the individual has already had Laser eye treatment to correct a vision problem, he may still be considered for the job, but if an eye deficiency is identified during the first assessment, he could not then elect to have Laser eye surgery to cure the issue and then qualify for a certificate to fly. Colour blindness is not acceptable at any time for pilots. Air Traffic Control employees are subject to almost identical eyesight guidelines too – it’s nice to know that those responsible for flying and landing planes are checked so carefully!

Many people understand the necessity for drivers to possess that they have a certain standard of eyesight, and for vocational drivers, like those who have LGV licences, there are strict health examinations carried out before a licence is issued. Train drivers are also required to meet the same levels of vision and, like road drivers, this can be done by using prescription glasses or contact lenses.

Drivers on London Underground trains have somewhat more strict guidelines. They are entitled to wear corrective glasses, though there are restrictions on what sort of frames are allowed as some shapes can have an adverse effect on peripheral vision, but contact lenses are presently not acceptable. As a matter of interest, all pairs of sunglasses used must be of a style endorsed by LU, as they must not interfere with colour identification at signals, and the company must ensure that high visibility clothing used by maintenance workers are very visible. (And yes, a few ‘Underground’ lines do also travel above ground too – hence the desire for sunglasses!)

The Police in England and Wales are relatively lenient, as both corrective glasses and contact lenses can be used by workers, subject to a few basic eyesight guidelines being observed. They will also employ applicants who have experienced various types of treatments including cataract surgery and Laser eye surgery, although they cannot accept those who have had invasive surgery completed on the cornea (for example non Laser eye treatments where the cornea is actually incised with a surgical implement) because of the greater risk of harm to the cornea if the officer happened to be hit in the face.

It’s obvious then, that many occupations do have standards in place outlining minimum sight requirements for prospective workers, so it is worth checking before applying for a new job. And it is also it is worth considering if you are thinking about eye treatment some time soon, so that any work done on your eyes cannot spoil future career openings.