Optical Laboratories Association releases latest edition of its 'Progressive Identifier'

Fairfax, VA-The Optical Laboratories Association (OLA) has released the 2008 edition of its Progressive Identifier book, the industry-standard guide to the identifying marks engraved on progressive addition lenses.

The updated edition contains diagrams for 456 lenses distributed in the United States and Canada, showing the markings that identify the lens supplier, the lens name, and the lens material. The diagrams include the relative position of the fitting cross, as well as the lens supplier's recommended minimum fitting height.

The Identifier also contains six indexes that list lenses according to identifying symbols, lens supplier name, minimum recommended height, lens name, extended range of add power, and variable focus designs. The last three lists-newly added for 2008-make it easier to identify lenses as well as to select appropriate lenses.

As has been its policy, OLA will distribute the remaining inventory of the prior year's edition to optometry and opticianry training programs at no charge. Instructors value the book for the insights it provides on contemporary premium lenses. Schools may request copies of 2007 OLA Progressive Identifier in any quantity, whether for a classroom or the entire student body.

"We typically distribute several thousand copies each year," said Bob Dziuban, OLA executive director. "Labs have a long-standing tradition of providing education and resource material to their customers. It's a logical extension of that philosophy to provide the same support to the schools that are providing optical education."

Schools may obtain copies of the 2007 OLA Progressive Identifier by calling 800/477-5652 or e-mailing ola@ola-labs.org
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