Display Screen Equipment Essentials (DSE)

If you use a DSE for most of your working day then a specific risk assessment must be carried out on you and your workstation. This should show any problems with the equipment that you use.

The most important aspect of DSE work is for the user to be able to achieve a comfortable position.

In addition, it is important that the environment is suitable and provides adequate heat, light and no loud background noise levels. It is important that you inform your Safety Representative if any of these conditions make your workspace uncomfortable.

Direct or indirect sources of light should not affect your screen by showing glare or reflection. Such light sources should be excluded by using for example, blinds and/or shades on windows should be drawn.

Workstation equipment — there are five main components the display: desk; environment; keyboard & chair.

The chair provided must be stable; have at least 5 castors, be adjustable and provide adequate lumbar support. When sitting at the workstation you must ensure that you sit correctly to ensure you don’t put pressure on your spine.

Your employer must provide you with a suitable monitor that can be adjusted. Your monitor should be able to be tilted to an appropriate height: and also be fitted with controls to enable you to adjust brightness and contrast. The screen should never flicker, and should be easy to read at all times.

The desk must be stable and suitable for all the work required, as should the keyboard. You should be able to freely move your legs under the table. Users should also take a break away from the screen of at least 5-10 minutes every hour: this will help to prevent visual fatigue and headaches.

Hazards Of Display Screen Work

Hazards linked to DSE users are dependent on various conditions. When a user is not able to find a comfortable working position musculoskeletal problems may occur as the person makes their body ‘fit the work station rather than fitting the work station to their own needs. Disorders can arise at variable rates and are a combination of posture; force applied and frequency of use.

These risks can be reduced if simple adjustments of furniture and equipment are made. This will improve your posture and reduce the risk of back pain.

Continual use of DSE may increase the risk of visual fatigue which is temporary – causing sore eyes, blurring of vision, headaches etc.

By correctly positioning DSE equipment and adjusting your lighting this problem can be reduced.

Workstation Checklist

The following checklist can be used as a guide when using computers. If there are any items on the checklist which you cannot rectify yourself, seek assistance from your Health and Safety Representative or Line Manager:

  • Is the size of the desk enough for you to work comfortably?
  • Is the level of noise comfortable for you to work in?
  • Is the level of lighting comfortable for you to work in?
  • Is the level of ventilation comfortable for you to work in?
  • Are there window~ blinds/shades which can be adjusted to suit your needs when working?
  • Have you been provided with a wrist support?
  • Have you been provided with a holder for documents you are working with?
  • Can you adjust the height of your chair and is the lumbar support adequate?
  • Is the space below your desk sufficient for your legs?
  • Does your work position allow you to sit with your feet flat on the floor, or has a foot rest been supplied to you?