The surprise findings come from eyecare specialist Specsavers, which polled 187 companies representing nearly half a million employees. It finds this is the case despite 62% of firms saying they offer eyecare specifically to comply with VDU legislation.
The survey found 53% of companies only make a contribution to eye tests and glasses. 13% fully funded eye tests but not glasses needs; 2% funded the costs of glasses, but not the eye test.
A Specsavers spokesman said: "The figures show there is still great confusion surrounding some of the regulations."
The survey revealed employers perceive eye tests to cost much more than they really do. More than 70% thought they cost £50 or more. Only 13% correctly believed eye tests cost typically £20 or below.