Prescription Safety Specs. VAT ?

[Paul G]

Hi All.

I have on order a pair of Safety glasses from Parmelee and to be paid for through my local optician.
I know I will have to pay VAT on the eye test (£28 + 20%) but the opticians say there's also VAT on the glasses as well.

I always was under the impression that industrial safety goods are zero rated, steel toecap boots for example.

Does anyone know?

Cheers,
Paul G


P.S.
Self employed sole trader, not VAT registered.

 

[Wendelspanswick]

It is weird the rules on PPE and Vat.

Zero rated:
Safety boots/Wellingtons/shoes for industrial use.
Safety helmet with or without visor and ear defenders.


Anything else for safety use is the standard rate of 20%, including ear defenders, safety specs, chainsaw trousers, Hi Viz etc.

 

[Shox Dr]

It is weird the rules on PPE and Vat.

Zero rated:
Safety boots/Wellingtons/shoes for industrial use.
Safety helmet with or without visor and ear defenders.


Anything else for safety use is the standard rate of 20%, including ear defenders, safety specs, chainsaw trousers, Hi Viz etc.

Well you learn something new everyday.

 

[Shedendman]

Including safety trainers(steel toes) as they are classed as a luxury/fashion item,daft or what

 

[Rocketman]

Strange how safety glasses are left out.

 

[fixerupper]

Yeah I had this a few years ago when I worked in the uk ... trying to kit meself out with all the proper safety gear, ear and eye protection, Hi vis , fall aresters , knee pads , gloves for this and that ,etc and thinking it was all vat free ...put a a big order thinking I was doing the right thing (for once ) came as bit of a shock!....jeff...

 

[Paul G]

Looks like I'll have to delve deep into my pockets again then.

I remember back when I was employed we had a delegation of MP's look round the factory.
Some green energy committee or other. They all had brand new hard hats and safety glasses on.
I bet they were able to claim back every penny.

Cheers everyone.
Paul G