Search

Search the guidance

Make your search more specific...

Guidance areas

Search

As well as searching, you can browse the Guidance.

Principles

A349
All spectacles or other optical appliances should be sold and supplied by, or under the supervision of, an optometrist or dispensing optician, even if an unregistered person could legally complete the sale without supervision. You should decide what is in the best interests of the patient. 
A350
When selling and supplying spectacles to a patient you must ensure that patients or their carers have all the information they need to safely use or look after them130
A351
You should:
  1. clearly explain to the patient the purpose and function of the spectacles ensure the spectacles are suitable for the patient’s needs 
  2. take and record facial, frame and other appropriate measurements before ordering the spectacles check that the spectacles are marked with CE or UKCA, and conform to the relevant standards131
  3. check that the spectacles correspond to the written prescription or sight test record fit the spectacles to ensure the correct plane, height and position
  4. check the spectacles on the patient for fit, comfort and function, making any adjustments before the patient takes them away
  5. check against a letter chart or equivalent, where appropriate, to ensure the correct acuity. 
A352
You may make up spectacles without a prescription, for example by duplicating an existing pair of spectacles, if you feel this is in the patient’s best interests.
A353
You must make arrangements for the patient to receive aftercare as far as, and for as long as, is reasonable.132

References

130 General Optical Council (2016) Standards of Practice for Optometrists and Dispensing Opticians para 2 [Accessed 1 Nov 2023] 
131 British Standards [Accessed 1 Nov 2023]
132 Opticians Act 1989 s27(3B) [Accessed 1 Nov 2023]