More DSE guidance – HSE’s leaflet Working with display screen equipment gives more information about how to comply with the Health and Safety (Display Screen Equipment) Regulations. You can find detailed advice on the regulations in Work with display screen equipment, Advice on using DSE if you’re pregnant or have epilepsy is available.

What is the purpose of a DSE assessment?

Why are they important? – DSE Assessments look at a number of things in your proximity and help you evaluate your current workstation layout. More specifically, they look at your keyboard, mouse, display screens, your furniture (IE chair and desk) and the environment around you.

What does DSE include?

DSE are devices or equipment that have an alphanumeric or graphic display screen and includes display screens, laptops, touch screens and other similar devices. What are the health risks with DSE? Some workers may experience fatigue, eye strain, upper limb problems and backache from overuse or improper use of DSE.

What does DSE stand for in DSE assessment?

A DSE assessment is an assessment of risks associated with the use of Display Screen Equipment (DSE) such as computers, laptops, tablets, and other display screens at work. It is essential for anyone who uses display screen equipment as part of their job.

A DSE assessment analyses how a screen and equipment associated with it is used and assess the risks to the user. These assessments are commonly known as DSE Self-Assessments, Workstation assessments, or Visual Display Unit Assessments. Why are DSE Assessments Important? For employers to fulfill their duties and responsibilities, a DSE assessment is important in order to ensure health and safety at the workplace in compliance with the HSE (DSE) 1992 Act.

This DSE workstation assessment and training for office workers is essential for people whose job includes sitting at a desk using computers or laptops, display screens, etc for the majority of their working day. DSE assessments help employees evaluate their current workstation layout.

• The assessment looks at a number of things in your workstation proximity such as the keyboard, mouse, display screens, furniture i.e.
• Chair and desk.
• Workstations that are not set up correctly can result in musculoskeletal injuries including neck, shoulder, back, and arm pains, fatigue, and eyestrain.

So, to maintain performance levels and safeguard the employees’ health and wellbeing, it is extremely important to take a DSE assessment. It is recommended that this be done at least once per year. By conducting a DSE assessment and educating employees, you can potentially improve the health and well-being of your employees, increase productivity, reduce absenteeism, and minimize injury risk hazards.

Once the assessment is completed, an action plan can be developed to avoid any potential future risks. What constitutes a DSE Assessment ? Wrong sitting postures and the way we use DSE often cause problems. Display Screen Equipment (DSE) is the screen that displays information – this in itself might not give you back pain, but the way you sit at it could do.

Computer/laptop workstations or equipment can be connected to neck, shoulder, back, arm pain, leg or foot pain as well as fatigue and eyestrain. It is not just the display screen that needs to be assessed. The most common display screen equipment that also needs to be considered includes:

Screen/ Display monitors

KeyboardsMouseLaptops and TabletsiPadSmartphonesTrackballsSoftwareFurniture (i.e. chair and desk)Environment around you

The assessment should also cover the general environment: including proper lighting, reflections, ventilation, temperature, humidity and noise. All of these things can impact how the display screen equipment is used and the risks to users. A DSE user assessment will include:

An Analysis of workstations and how to reduce risks (musculoskeletal injuries in the workplace).Addressing risk factors and ensuring risk controls are in place.Appropriate training and relevant information, understanding ergonomics, and office working.Provide eyesight tests or other eye assessments on request.Review each assessment with the change in DSE regulations or when the user requires it.

Who Would Require A DSE Assessment? If you fall into the following categories, you may need a DSE assessment.

You work at a fixed workstationYou work from home or are a mobile workerA new workstation is set up or if you change desks regularly (hot-desking)A new employee/user joins the workA change is made to an existing work environmentA user complains of existing work conditions, discomfort, back pain, fatigue or eyestrain

Who Carries Out The DSE Assessment? An initial DSE self-assessment can be undertaken by an employee using a simple DSE Assessment form or software solution. The results of this assessment should then be evaluated and assessed by the individuals that have been trained professionally.

Good and correct training is vital to being able to successfully evaluate an assessment as the DSE assessor needs to be able to identify the risks associated with workstation setup and make recommendations accordingly. It is also important to effectively communicate the findings of the assessment and present the information to the concerned people who need to take action.

Posture Group’s DSE Assessment Tool As part of our DSE Training, we offer a free DSE Assessment tool that your employees can complete as part of their training program. The assessment consists of a set of questions and identifies any issues relating to your set up, your posture and how to configure your workstation.

What are types of DSE?

Display Screen Equipment (DSE) Working with DSE equipment is safe when used correctly, however poor working postures, excessive and prolonged use can cause staff to experience health problems. These include musculoskeletal problems such as aches and pains in their back, shoulders, neck, arms, wrists, hands or fingers and temporary visual fatigue, with symptoms such as blurred vision, sore eyes and headaches.

Desktop computersWorkstation on wheels (WOWs)Laptops and other similar portable computersRovers and other handheld device

A DSE user is a member of staff who uses any type of DSE equipment as a significant part of their normal work. Staff will be generally classified as a DSE user if most or all of the following apply:

normally uses DSE for continuous or near-continuous spells of an hour or more at a timeuses DSE in this way more or less dailyneeds to transfer information quickly to or from the DSEneeds to apply high levels of attention and concentrationhighly dependent on DSE or have little choice about using it (ie no alternative means)

DSE users are responsible for:

carrying out DSE self-assessment(s) (line managers to support if required)actioning any identified non-compliances that are within their power to resolvereporting any outstanding actions to their line manager (eg if additional equipment and/or furniture is required)comply with safe systems of work put in place by their line manager eg taking breaks, reporting any symptoms of ill health associated with DSE workcompleting a self-referral to Occupational Health if experiencing ill-health (eg musculoskeletal problems) associated with DSE work (include the completed DSE self-assessment with the referral)

Line managers are responsible for:

identifying staff who are DSE usersensuring DSE users are fully trained and informed of the risks associated with DSE work and the measures that can be taken to reduce the risks (see downloads section)ensuring that all DSE users complete the relevant DSE self-assessment(s) (offering staff assistance if required)ensuring any identified non-compliances from DSE self-assessment(s) are actioned (eg purchasing additional equipment and/or furniture via oracle)completing a management referral to Occupational Health if staff report ill-health (eg musculoskeletal problems) associated with DSE work (include the completed DSE self-assessment with the referral)

The following DSE self-assessment(s) are available (see downloads section):

ONSITE – Display Screen Equipment (DSE) risk assessmentHOME WORKING – Display Screen Equipment (DSE) risk assessmentWorkstation on wheels checklistLaptop and other similar portable computer checklistRovers and other handheld devices checklist

Once the self-assessment(s) are complete, DSE users must action any identified non-compliances that are within their power to resolve. Actions not within the DSE users power to resolve, must be reported to their line manager (eg if additional equipment and/or furniture is required).

Line managers must then action any identified non-compliances from DSE self-assessment(s) (eg purchasing additional equipment and/or furniture via oracle). Following the completion of DSE self-assessment(s), a self or management referral to Occupational Health can be made if staff are experiencing ill-health associated with DSE work eg musculoskeletal problems.

Please include a copy of the completed DSE self-assessment(s) with the referral. The DSE self-assessment(s) must be reviewed if:

there has been a significant change ie new equipment, new software, new furniture, change of location etcthe DSE user reports ill-health associated with DSE work

Merlin Links : Display Screen Equipment (DSE)

What is the first step of a DSE assessment?

Risk Assessment Step 1: Identifying the Hazards – The first step of a risk assessment is to identify the hazards that are present at the DSE workstation. You can identify the hazards through:

• Workplace observations.
• Obtaining feedback from employees.
• Checking any manufacturer’s instructions for DSE equipment.
• Reviewing past ill health records.

Use our downloadable DSE work station assessment checklist above to help you identify the potential risks.

What are examples of DSE equipment?

DSE Display Screen Equipment – Do you ever get aches, pains, eye strain or headaches after work? Your display screen equipment and workstation may not be set up correctly. Our Display Screen Equipment (DSE) online course explores how to set up your workstation to avoid health and safety issues.

It covers the relevant legislation, the importance of good posture, and exercises to prevent musculoskeletal problems, aches and pains. Display screen equipment (DSE) is the term coined for devices and equipment that have a graphic or alphanumeric display screen. This includes PCs, laptops, tablets, smartphones and microfiche readers.

Given the vast quantity of time that many workers spend in front of display screens, creating and maintaining a comfortable and healthy workspace is imperative. Poor posture and unsuitable work environments can contribute towards the development of many aches and pains, commonly affecting the upper limb, back and eyes.

1. Training staff members in how to maintain good posture and work conditions within their workspace is essential.
2. Display screen equipment training courses are invaluable in increasing awareness and knowledge around safe working conditions.
3. Staff should be encouraged to take responsibility for their own health and employers should be familiar with their legal requirements.

What is Display Screen Equipment and how is it Used? As outlined above, the term Display Screen Equipment encompasses many computers and devices that are used on a daily basis within businesses (e.g. smartphones, PCs, laptops and tablets). Virtually all office workers have access to DSE and use it on a regular basis.

While its use is not high risk as such, careful protections should be put in place to protect DSE users. Dependent on how regularly a worker uses their DSE and for what duration, they may be covered by the Display Screen Equipment Regulations 1992. Whilst workers who infrequently use DSE, or only use it for short periods of time, are not covered by the legislation, their health is still of paramount importance and should be protected accordingly.

Employers should familiarise themselves with their responsibilities regarding DSE users. How to Use Your Display Screen Equipment Correctly DSE arrangement is not a one-size fits all concept; therefore your equipment must be set up to suit you individually. Good posture is essential in maintaining good health whilst using DSE. It can be facilitated by organising your workspace in a comfortable layout.

You should maintain an upright posture in a chair with proper back support and adjust it to your height. Also, your forearms should be horizontal when typing with straight wrists and comfortably curved fingertips. Similarly, your screen should be centrally positioned and an arm’s length in front of you with your eyes level with the top of the screen.

You should regularly look away from your screens to avoid tiring your eyes and take regular breaks. Keeping active throughout the day is important. It is recommended that you organise your work so that every hour you spend at least five minutes doing work activities away from your screen such as photocopying, making calls, etc.

• There are also a number of workstation exercises that can be performed at your desk to help prevent fatigue, pain and discomfort.
• As well as organising your time, it is beneficial to organise your workspace.
• For example, the items that you use most frequently should be stored in the closest proximity to you and the ones used more rarely kept further afield.

Furthermore, keeping your desk free from clutter is vital. Why is it Important to Use Your Display Screen Equipment Correctly? Poor safety regarding DSE usage can result in a multitude of ailments, including aches and pains, headaches, musculoskeletal disorders, stress and tired eyes.

In order to protect workers from these unpleasant repercussions, it is essential to put a spotlight on proper DSE usage. Display screen equipment training is a fundamental way of generating awareness of the importance of workers looking after their own health. Additionally, education enables DSE users to implement and maintain good working practices.

The Display Screen Equipment Regulations 1992 outlines an employer’s responsibility to provide DSE users with health and safety training regarding the use of DSE at work.

What are good DSE practices?

Arrange desk and DSE to avoid screen glare – adjust curtains and blinds to eliminate unwanted light. Adequately illuminate source documents. Eliminate distractions, such as noise. Use a keyboard with legible, tactile keys and adjustable feet.

How often should DSE assessments be done?

It’s important for a DSE assessment to be carried out every time a workstation is set up, when a new employee starts work or when there is a significant change made to an employees workstation set-up.

Is DSE a risk assessment?

What is a DSE Risk Assessment? – A Display Screen Equipment (DSE) assessment is an assessment that looks at the risk involved with using a keyboard, mouse, chair, computer, laptop, tablet, and other screens at work. The DSE assessment looks at every workstation, reducing the number of risks involved and providing recommendations for the issues that can’t be fixed right away.

• The most common hazards come from sitting at a computer for long periods.
• Bad posture is one of the most common issues identified in a DSE risk assessment, and can result in severe back, neck, shoulder or arm pain, or worse, spine disorders.
• Severe headaches are another common problem and are caused by long periods in front of a screen or screen glare.

Computer screens aren’t the only cause, though, slouching over a phone, tablet and other smaller devices can also harm your employees over the long term. By looking at how an employee uses the screen, the DSE assessment will qualify the risk. The goal is to identify potential hazards and assess the severity of potential harm to those who may be affected — before taking action to reduce the risk.

What is a DSE report?

What are the benefits? – The DSE assessment is designed to provide advice and guidance on a number of issues including demonstrating to the DSE user:

the risks from DSE work; the importance of good posture and changing position; how to adjust furniture to help avoid risks; organising the workplace to avoid awkward or frequently repeated stretching movements; avoiding reflections and glare on or around the screen; organising work for activity changes or breaks if necessary; and who to contact for help and to report problems or symptoms.

The DSE Assessment and Report are designed to reduce the risk of DSE-related health impacts for the individual such as repetitive strain injuries, upper limb disorders, stress and eye strain. Business benefits include reduced employee absence, improved employee motivation, and peace of mind that legal obligations are met.

What does DSE stand for in ergonomics?

Display screen equipment (DSE) users – If you use display screen equipment (DSE) to do your work for continuous periods of more than 1 hour per day, you are considered a DSE user.

How many sections make up the HSE DSE workstation Assessment?

Display screen equipment (DSE) workstation checklist This checklist can be used by employers who need to comply with the Health and Safety (Display Screen Equipment) Regulations 1992. It can be used as an aid to risk assessment and to help comply with the Schedule to the Regulations.

What is a DSE compliant chair?

Office chairs are required to be adjustable for height and have an adjustable backrest for height and tilt. These features allow the backrest to be adjusted to support the natural curvature of the lower back, which in turn aids correct overall body posture.

When should you review your DSE risk assessment?

Review and update. – DSE regulations state that an assessment should be completed on a regular basis. Most companies do this once a year and you should consider any changes that may have occurred to the DSE. Take into account any new equipment, employee feedback or new team members.

• DSE risk assessments are an important aspect of ensuring your employees are safe and comfortable.
• Routine risk assessments are also key to making sure that any potential hazards are identified early and mitigated to avoid any negative consequences.
• To find out more about DSE risk assessments and health and safety in the workplace, speak to Alan Boswell Risk Management on 01603 967900, or you can download our handy guide here,

Read more: Health and safety after Brexit: what’s changed?

How high should monitor be for DSE assessment?

Position the screen: so that you avoid prolonged or repetitive tilting of your neck. Your eyes should be roughly the same height as the top of the screen. If you find yourself leaning forward to peer at the screen, adjust the font size, bring the screen closer or arrange an eyesight test.

When would a DSE risk assessment need to be reviewed?

How often should DSE Assessments be undertaken? – DSE Assessments should be undertaken at least every 2 years however the frequency would need to be increased should the employee change workstation or if a particular health compliant arose for example.

Who should do a DSE assessment?

Working safely with display screen equipment If workers use display screen equipment (DSE) daily, as part of their normal work, continuously for an hour or more, employers must do a workstation assessment. Employers should look at:

the whole workstation, including equipment, furniture, and work conditions the job being done any special requirements of a member of staff, for example a user with a disability

Where there are risks, they should take steps to reduce them. Employers must also do an assessment when:

a new workstation is set up a new user starts work a change is made to an existing workstation or the way it’s used users complain of pain or discomfort

Use this to help make an assessment.

What is an example of a DSE user?

DSE refers to Display Screen Equipment such as PC’s, laptops, tablets, TV screens and even smartphones. The HSE (Health & Safety Executive) class anyone who uses at least one of these for an hour or more at a time as a DSE user. A user can be an employee or a self-employed person that uses screens regularly in their day to day work.

Therefore infrequent or short term use doesn’t make you a DSE user. The Health and Safety (Display Screen Equipment) Regulations 1992 are in place to protect DSE users from the health risks associated with DSE, such as RSI, headaches, eyestrain and back problems. Employers have certain obligations surrounding DSE users so it is important to be aware if you are classed as a DSE user.

Even if you are not situated in your company’s main office you are still a DSE user. Likewise, it is important for employers to realise their responsibilities towards DSE users. The HSE state that the law applies if users are, for example:

at a fixed workstationmobile workershome workershot-desking (workers should carry out a basic risk assessment if they change desks regularly)

The Health and Safety (Display Screen Equipment) Regulations apply to workers who use DSE daily, for an hour or more at a time. We describe these workers as ‘DSE users’.

Why should you complete a DSE?

DSE assessments: the business benefits – As DSE is now one of the most commonly used types of work equipment, HSE introduced The Health and Safety (Display Screen Equipment) Regulations 1992 to protect the health of those who work with DSE. Proactively managing your organisation’s DSE assessments with ‘Healthy Working’ and DSE Assessor training from HSE helps not only to ensure that your business meets the requirements of the regulations, but also benefits your business by:

• improving the health, wellbeing and morale of employees
• sustaining productivity as a result of reduced sickness absence
• minimising the likelihood of compensation claims for upper limb disorders (ULD)
• reducing administration costs
• encouraging positive behaviour and the adoption of DSE good practice
• contributing to an improved organisational safety culture

What is the purpose of design risk assessment?

Our feedback on DRAs we receive – We (Safescope) act as Principal Designer and receive a number of DRAs on a regular basis. Disappointingly, the majority of DRAs (almost 90%) tend to be very generic and a tick box exercise. In reality, DRAs are a great opportunity for designers to proactively inform the relevant parties about the risks that they are aware of in a project,

1. Residual Design Risk Assessment (DRAs) at post completion stage are essential to inform the client about the residual health and safety risks that the client is expected to manage.
2. Failure to provide this information can lead to injuries during post completion phase resulting in potential liability or even prosecution for designers,

However, it is also a fact that there are no good examples or effective CPD training courses available to assist designers in writing project specific and effective DRAs. The DRA template should include design, pre-construction, construction and post completion sections and ideally should be no more than two A4 pages for a medium size project (say up to £1m).

What is the purpose of environmental risk assessment?

​An environmental risk assessment is a document that outlines the health risks associated with exposure to environmental contaminants at a site and provides the justification for taking action to remediate or remove the contamination.

What is the purpose of a medication risk assessment?

When a medication risk assessment is required – A medication risk assessment needs to be completed where any risks or potential risks associated with a service users’ medication are identified. These can include storage of medication and fire risks where there is use of creams or emollients containing paraffin.

What is the purpose of product risk assessment?

Product risk assessments performed by regulators can be used in the process of establishing new pre- market regulatory requirements, to evaluate the effectiveness of existing pre-market regulatory requirements, or to determine whether some kind of government action is necessary to reduce the risk to consumers.

Jack Gloop