Essential features of LMIC markets

Ready-made reading glasses are included in the WHO-UNICEF Assistive Product Specifications (APS) which describe the minimum requirements related to technical performance and function for safe and effective assistive technology use.

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Table 18: World Health Organization Assistive Product Specifications for reading glasses

Quality standard
ISO 16034:2002: This international standard specifies the minimum requirements for complete single-vision ready-to-wear near-vision spectacles. These spectacles are not intended for regular use without the approval of an eyecare professional.
EN 14139:2002: This European standard specifies the minimum requirements for complete ready-to-wear spectacles. These are not intended for regular use without the approval of an eyecare professional.
US ANSI standard: Z80.31–2017: This American national standard created by the American National Standards Institute specifies the minimum requirements for complete ready-to-wear near-vision spectacles with positive power available directly to the public without the prescription of a licensed professional.
Lens
Power range: +0.75D to +4D with 0.25D intervals (The power should be labelled on each pair of glasses)
Material: Plastic/Glass
Solar ultraviolet radiation transmittance: ultraviolet radiation absorption >95 per cent close to 400nm
Resistance: Impact- and scratch-resistant
Lens diameter should depend on the lens design and frame size
Frames
Design: Full-field and half-eye frames
Weight: Light
Durability: Long
Other
Individual box, case or pouch should be provided for each pair
Cleaning cloth should be provided for each pair
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Table 19: WHO Assistive Product Specifications – Essential information required for reading glasses

Product
Overall weight
Lens
Lens type
Lens material
Lens coating
Optical centration distance
Power range
Solar ultraviolet radiation transmittance
Frame
Frame dimensions: (Lens width x Bridge width x Temple width and Lens height)
Frame material
Frame colour