Much has been written about the
pros and cons of in-house lens processing. While everyone has
an opinion, to completely assess potential savings, make sure
you consider the following costs that may be associated with
setting up a lab. On the other hand, check out the savings that
can be realized with in-office surfacing. By carefully analyzing
both the advantages (savings) and the disadvantages (OSHA issues,
space requirements, man-hours) practitioners can come to an
educated conclusion on whether an in-office lab would be beneficial
to THEIR office.
FIVE ISSUES TO CONSIDER
BEFORE INVESTING IN AN IN-OFFICE LAB
The material removed from lens blanks
during surfacing and finishing is considered waste. It has
to go somewhere and there are laws in every state and local
jurisdiction that govern where it can and cannot go. Do
your homework and research the laws regarding disposal.
Lens manufacturers can provide you with Material Data sheets.
Grill your prospective equipment supplier
on their space requirements, i.e. counter heights, equipment
dimensions, etc. Be particularly aware of any special wiring
and/or plumbing requirements. Most local jurisdictions require
an inspection of electrical and/or plumbing changes and
in some cases you must have a permit before the alterations
are made.
Ask for references from your equipment
provider. An existing customer can provide valuable feedback
on a company's reputation for service and after sale support.
Seek their opinion on the quality of the training they received;
cost of consumables and maintenance parts; service response
time; percentage of scrappage - the cost of most premium
lenses makes this a must!
Sketch the proposed placement of your
new finishing and/or surfacing lab and show it to the people
in your office. They will appreciate the opportunity for
input and they may spot something important that you missed.
This beats having to tear out a wall after the fact.
When evaluating the necessary man hours
to operate your new lab, always overestimate. For instance,
until you have some historical data to follow, maintaining
lens stock will be time consuming and can be expensive.
An experienced lens rep. can provide you with a proposal
for start up stock. However, manage this inventory carefully.
It generally represents a healthy chunk-of-change.
