Photography by
DAVID KRESSLER

Photo Styled by
SHEENA TAFF

What are the “new” tools in the dispensary that should be in any optician’s arsenal? Here, Optical Manager Sheena Taff unpacks her own toolkit to reveal what’s inside, including Covid-19-focused tools for safe dispensing.

“As opticians, we look to our tools to equip us with added precision and finesse when adjusting frames and taking measurements. With the right tools, our skills exceed our patients’ expectations in creating the perfect fit and visually pleasing pair of glasses.

“Practicing eye care during Covid has required me to add some new tools to my toolkit. Each one helps me to safely perform my duties as an optician while putting myself and my patients at ease with the new optics of seeing the optician during Covid.”

UV STERILIZER: While soap and water are effective, frames are going through the wringer with constant washing. Give them a break and ensure microscopic disinfecting in just 20 to 30 minutes with a tabletop UV sterilizer. The most delicate of frames, even with leather and crystals, can be safely purged of bacteria, viruses, and microorganisms. Cleans up to 15 frames at once, and also cleans handheld tools, masks, and cases.

Pictured: De Rigo UV Sterilizer.

CLOTH MASKS: Covering your face can cause you to lose some of your expression and personality. Cloth masks let you share your charisma and style with patients. With the right fit, they reduce lens fogging by absorbing more moisture. Switch it up and try matching your eyewear for a fun #EyeStyleOOTD.

Pictured: Turquoise eyeglass pattern and dog in glasses by @OpticianAboutTown; camo and bird pattern by ClearVision Optical.

OPTICIAN’S TOOLBELT: Fashion + function marry perfectly in this luxurious leather crossbody bag that keeps all your tools close at hand. With a place for your preferred screwdriver, pliers, PD ruler, and cleaning cloth, it allows each associate to keep tools within reach so there is no risk of cross-contaminating.

Pictured: Asher G. Optician’s Toolbelt. Items inside and to the right of toolbelt: Hilco Vision’s “Push-On” Nose Pad Removal Tweezers and screwdrivers. PD Ruler from OGI Eyewear.

FACE SHIELD: A face shield adds an additional layer of protection for you and your patients when hands-on adjustments or fittings are necessary. The lightweight and comfortable padded halo headband makes it easy to wear all day.

Pictured: Polaroid STAY SAFE 2 shield from Safilo.

ACRYLIC FRAME TRAY: To ensure each frame is disinfected between try-ons, patients should no longer be helping themselves to the frame boards. Clear acrylic frame trays beautifully showcase glasses for patients to view and try on. They can be easily cleaned and are stackable for storage when not in use.

Pictured: frame display acrylic tray from framedisplays.com.

CONICAL & CYLINDRICAL INCLINATION PLIERS: The nylon pad protects metal frames from damage when adjusting eye wires, end pieces, hinges, or bridges. The all-metal design has a textured grip and an easy-to-disinfect nonporous finish.

Pictured: B&S Cylindrical Inclination Pliers from Hilco Vision.