Ergonomics and Worstation Assessment

Professionals You Can Rely On

Workstation Assessments

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The DSE Regulations 1992 requires that all persons working with VDUs have an assessment that looks at their work environment in relation to computer use.

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Display Screen Equipment (DSE)

Display Screen Equipment (DSE) is a device or equipment that has an alphanumeric or graphic display screen, regardless of the display process involved. It includes both conventional display screens and those used in emerging technologies such as laptops, touch-screens and other similar devices.

Computer workstations or equipment can be associated with neck, shoulder, back or arm pain, as well as with fatigue and eyestrain.

Surveys have found that a high proportion of DSE workers report aches, pains or eye discomfort. These aches and pains are sometimes called upper limb disorders (ULDs), which can include a range of medical conditions such as RSI. Most of these conditions do not indicate any serious ill health, but it makes sense to avoid them as far as possible.

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Employer Obligations:

The Regulations require employers to:

Analyse workstations, and assess and reduce risks.

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Employers need to look at:

The whole workstation including equipment, furniture, and the work environment.

The job being done.

Any special needs of individual staff.

Where risks are identified, take steps to reduce them.

Ensure workstations meet minimum requirements.

Plan work so there are breaks or changes of activity.

On request arrange eye tests, and provide spectacles if special ones are needed.

Provide health and safety training and information.

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Macs can provide:

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A workstation assessment that will address individual and manager issues.

A report with recommendations.

General advice

The above services will highlight those changes necessary in order to comply with the regulations. As well as carrying out the assessment we use the process as a general advice session.

How often should risk assessments of DSE workstations be done?

Answer: An assessment should be done when a new workstation is set up, when a new user starts work, or when a substantial change is made to an existing workstation (or the way it is used). Assessments should be repeated if there is any reason to suspect they may no longer be valid – for example, if users start complaining of pain or discomfort.