VSP® Vision Care released new research revealing a concerning trend: desk workers are now getting nearly 100 hours of screen time each week, with work accounting for a substantial portion of that time.
In fact, on weekdays, desk workers report spending an astounding 93% of their waking hours looking at screens. The majority (71%) are experiencing performance impacts due to screen-related visual discomfort, reporting nearly a full workday of lost productivity each week.
ABOUT THE SURVEY
The third annual Workplace Vision Health Report survey, conducted by Workplace Intelligence, polled 800 human resource and benefits leaders and 1,200 full-time employees at U.S. organizations. For the first time, the research also included non-desk workers, such as medical professionals, teachers, construction or manufacturing workers, retail and hospitality staff, public safety officers and others whose roles occur outside a traditional office setting. The survey found that many of these workers are affected by excessive screen time as well, underscoring the need for inclusive, eye-friendly workplace strategies that extend beyond desk-based roles.
“Whether working behind a desk or on the go, healthy vision has a direct impact on job performance, and today’s employees expect their employers to provide high-quality, affordable vision care benefits,” said VSP Vision Chief Insurance Officer Dave Plevyak. “By investing in vision benefits and prioritizing eye health, employers can help protect sight, enhance overall wellness and build a workforce that’s healthier, happier and more productive.”
Key findings from the 2026 Workplace Vision Health Report include:
- Rising screen time: Desk workers are getting 99.2 hours of screen time each week, up from 97 hours last year. However, non-desk workers report getting nearly as much screen time—on average 87.6 hours each week.
- Widespread screen-related visual discomfort: 71% of desk workers and 59% of non-desk workers experienced screen-related visual discomfort, reporting similar challenges, including tired or uncomfortable eyes, blurred or double vision and difficulty maintaining visual focus after extended screen use.
- Significant productivity loss: Workers experiencing screen-related visual discomfort say it reduces their productivity at work by 18.6% on average. This equates to 7.4 hours a week of lost time, or nearly one full workday.
- Absenteeism impacts: One in four employees report taking time off due to discomfort associated with extended screen use. On average, workers report taking 4.5 days off each year.
- Employer action: Only around a third of workers say their company encourages eye breaks (34%) or provides education about how to minimize visual discomfort (32%). The majority of HR leaders (87%) admit their company should do more to help employees reduce screen-related visual discomfort.
“When screen time reaches this level, regular eye care becomes essential—not optional,” said VSP Vision Care Senior Vice President of Clinical and Medical Affairs Dr. Valerie Sheety-Pilon. “Eye doctors are on the front lines of identifying and managing screen-related eye issues, helping workers prevent discomfort before it escalates into productivity loss or broader health issues. Through annual eye exams, personalized guidance and early detection of vision and health concerns, eye doctors play a critical role in supporting today’s workforce and helping employers build truly eye-friendly workplaces.”
“Managing digital eye strain is a shared responsibility,” added Dan Schawbel, Managing Partner, Workplace Intelligence. “In fact, 66% of employees acknowledge that they need to do a better job of managing digital eye strain, for example by taking more frequent breaks. However, employers have a clear opportunity to strengthen their commitment to their staff by actively supporting them in addressing this issue.”
To access the 2026 Workplace Vision Health Report, click here.
