Is an employee entitled to a sunglasses allowance?

A sunny day at work sounds nice, but without the right protection, bright sunlight can be harmful to the eyes. Employees who work outside a lot are at risk of fatigue, headaches and even permanent eye damage due to UV radiation. That is why the Working Conditions Act states that employers are responsible for safe working conditions, and that includes eye protection.

But is an employee entitled to a sunglasses compensation? And what does this mean for employers? In this blog, we explain when sunglasses are a necessary employment facility.

When are sunglasses mandatory?

According to the Working Conditions Act an employer is obliged to take measures to protect employees against harmful influences during work. Exposure to strong sunlight and UV radiation is also included.

If an employee is exposed to the sun for a long time while working — for example due to a lack of shade or due to reflection from water, snow or light surfaces — sunglasses can be used as personal protective equipment (PPE) are considered. In that case, the employer is obliged to make them available.

Which professions benefit from sunglasses?

• Construction and infrastructure: Construction workers, road workers and roofers often work without shade and are exposed to strong sunlight and annoying reflections.
• Transport and logistics: Truck drivers and drivers suffer from glare from the low sun, which can result in dangerous situations.
• Agriculture and maritime sector: Sun and reflection on water or wet ground are a risk to the eyes.
• Enforcement and public order: Traffic controllers and BOAs depend on good visibility in all weather conditions.
• aeronautical: Pilots and ground crew work in open spaces where sunlight and reflections from runways can be annoying.

For all these professional groups, sunglasses are not a luxury, but an essential tool for safety and comfort.

Why are sunglasses important for work?

Sunlight is not only a nuisance, but can also pose serious health risks. Prolonged exposure to bright light and UV radiation affects your eyes and thus your work performance. Without protection, your eyes can quickly fatigue, leading to irritation, dryness and burning. This can reduce your concentration and even cause headaches. Working in bright sunlight without sunglasses often means squinting to see better, which puts extra strain on your facial muscles and can make headaches worse.

In occupations where you rely on good visibility — such as driving, working with machines or maintaining traffic — glare can be downright dangerous. A sudden reflection of the sun can reduce your vision for a few seconds, with all the associated risks.

Good sunglasses with UV protection prevent these problems and increase safety and comfort in the workplace.

How do you arrange a sunglasses allowance?

How do you apply for compensation as an employee?

If you think you are entitled to a sunglasses allowance, it is wise to first check whether anything about it has been laid down in the business scheme or collective labor agreement. In some sectors, sunglasses are seen as a necessary means of protection. In addition, it is good to check your employer's PPE policy, which may state whether and how sunglasses are reimbursed. Do you have doubts? Then talk to your employer, the prevention officer or the occupational health service to discuss why sunglasses are important for your work. When sunglasses are recognized as personal protective equipment, you can often order them from your employer or claim the costs. When purchasing, make sure that the glasses meet the appropriate safety standards, such as CE marking and UV protection, so that your eyes are optimally protected while working.

Why is a sunglasses allowance a smart choice for employers?

For employers, providing sunglasses is not only an obligation when work requires it, but also an investment in safety and productivity. Employees who have a good view and are not blinded by bright sunlight are able to concentrate better and are less at risk of accidents at work. This contributes to a more efficient work environment and reduces the number of health problems, such as eye fatigue and headache, that can lead to absenteeism. In addition, complying with the Working Conditions Act helps employers avoid liability for health complaints. From a financial point of view, it can also be advantageous, because health and safety provisions fall under the work costs scheme (WKR) and are often tax deductible. Offering a sunglasses allowance is therefore not only a way to comply with legal obligations, but also a smart choice that improves both employee well-being and efficiency within the company.

Frequently asked questions about sunglasses reimbursement

Are sunglasses always mandatory protective equipment?

For employers, it is important to assess whether sunglasses are necessary in the work environment. If employees work outside a lot and are exposed to strong sunlight or reflections, sunglasses can be considered personal protective equipment (PPE). In that case, the employer is obliged to make them available.

Can an employee declare every pair of sunglasses to the employer?

Not every pair of sunglasses is automatically eligible for reimbursement. Employers can set requirements for the glasses, such as sufficient UV protection and CE certification. Discuss with your employer which glasses are eligible and whether there is a regular supplier where you can order the sunglasses.

Are prescription sunglasses also reimbursed?

If an employee depends on prescription glasses to carry out his or her work and is exposed to strong sunlight, prescription sunglasses may be considered a necessary means of protection. In that case, the employer is obliged to provide appropriate sunglasses.

Good visibility is vital for safety and productivity in the workplace. Make sure that bright sunlight is not an obstacle and that appropriate protection is available.

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