What is Display Screen Equipment (DSE)?
Display Screen Equipment refers to workstations which include a screen for the purpose of displaying information or data. Common in occupational spaces, DSE can include desktop computers, laptops, tablets, smartphones, television screens and other specialised screens.
What are the hazards associated with DSE and occupational workstations?
- Incorrect workstation set up
- Inadequate equipment for the job
- Poor posture
- Harmful repetitive movements
- Extended screen use
The above hazards can cause the following hazard effects:
- Musculoskeletal disorders such as shoulder, neck and spinal disorders
- Work related upper limb disorders (WRULDs) like disorders of the nerves, tendons and joints
- Eye problems like blurred vision, irritation, dryness and short sightedness
- Disturbed and low-quality sleep, resulting in fatigue
- Poor mental health and emotional wellbeing, manifesting through stress and anxiety
What must you do as an employer?
Under the Health and Safety (Display Screen Equipment) Regulations 1992 as amended by the Health and Safety (Miscellaneous Amendments) Regulations 2002, employers have a legal duty to protect their workers from the risks discussed above so far as is reasonably practicable. An employer must:
- Inform workers of any occupational arrangements made in the benefit of their health and safety.
- Provide workers with the necessary information and training regarding proper DSE and workstation usage.
- Implement ways for workers to reduce their risk of DSE related ill health such as encouraging breaks from repetitive working position
- Provide workers with an optical test if their vision is blurred or they are experiencing eye strain to potentially avoid Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS)
- Conduct a DSE workstation assessment for each employee
These responsibilities also extend to hybrid and home workers, working remotely. Given the lack of direct oversight for home working stations, it is the responsibility of employers to do what is reasonability practicable in these scenarios like offering guidance, training and perhaps equipment.
DSE workstation Assessment:
A DSE workstation assessment must be conducted by a trained assessor, whether internal or external, to ensure that the risks stated above are minimised. A report must be produced after to identify any risks or deficiencies, offering solutions and recommendations such as ergonomic chairs and adjustable desks to reduce significant risks.
A DSE assessment is required whenever a new station is set up, a new worker starts, when changes are made to existing workstations and if a worker expresses discomfort.
Typically, a DSE workstation assessment will look at the following components:
Display screen
- Height to be slightly below gaze level to avoid tilting head back, hunching or another form of poor posture.
- Angle to be titled backward slightly to prevent glare and reflection.
- Distance to be around an arm’s length from the user
- Appropriate brightness and contrast of the screen to not hinder readability and reduce visual fatigue.
Keyboard and input devices
- Keyboard positioned flat or slightly downward at a distance so that wrists are straight, and forearms are level
- Small space between user and keyboard to rest hands when not typing
- Mouse to be close to the keyboard to avoid overreaching and to keep wrist in a neutral position
Chair
- Adjustable height so feet rest flat on the floor (a footrest can be used to help)
- Knees to be at a 90-degree angle
- Five-point base recommended for stability
- Lumbar support for the lower back
- Adjustable tilt to aid comfort
Desk
- Sufficient space necessary to work
- Items to be placed within reach to avoid over stretching
- Desk height should allow forearms to rest parallel to the floor (an adjustable chair may rectify this)
Environment
- Maintain a comfortable room temperature
- Use blinds/curtains to control natural light
- Ensure lighting does not cause a glare on display screens
- Adequate space for movement must be provided
Habits
- Encourage regular breaks to reduce the risk of eye strain and muscle fatigue
- Encourage movement or a change in posture within the hour, every hour
How can we help?
For more information consult the Health and Safety Executive’s website, or the Work with display screen equipment guidance on DSE regulations. For advice and support regarding DSE regulations or assessments please get in touch here.
