The Health and Safety (Display Screen Equipment) Regulations 1992 place legal requirements on employers whose workers are regarded as DSE Users. These are employees who use said equipment (PC’s, laptops, tablets or smartphones) daily, for periods of an hour or more at a time.
What are the requirements?
Where there are DSE users, the legal imperative is to:
- Complete a DSE assessment for each user, per workstation (include hot-desking).
- Reduce the risks associated with DSE use.
- Provide paid-for eye examinations where requested.
- Provide training and safety information to relevant workers.
This applies to:
- Fixed workstations (for each user if hot desking).
- Mobile workers, see CIEHF Sit – Stand guidance.
- Homeworkers, who, if working in a hybrid setting, require a DSE assessment for each work location (the home setup and the office workstation – even if shared).
HSE has a leaflet, working with display screen equipment, which gives information about how to comply with the Health and Safety (Display Screen Equipment) Regulations.
The regulations do not apply to workers who use this equipment infrequently or for short periods of time, at each use.
Posture – The Most Overlooked DSE Risk
Maintaining good posture at a desk isn’t easy; it takes practice. Proper alignment helps reduce strain, prevent aches, and boost energy.
Quick Tips for Better Desk Posture
- Screen height – Eyes should be level with the top of the screen, about an arm’s length away.
- Shoulders – Keep them relaxed. Sit high enough so they’re not shrugged.
- Elbows – Just above keyboard height.
- Seat position – Thighs supported, feet flat on the floor. Use a cushion or footrest if needed.
- Back Support – Ensure the chair supports your lower back; add a cushion if necessary.
- Screen & keyboard – Keep them directly in front of you to avoid twisting.
- Mouse – Should be in line with your elbow.
- Desk layout – Keep frequently used items within reach. Place your phone on the opposite side to your writing hand.
Using Laptops, Tablets & Phones
When using a laptop, it’s important to maintain good posture and reduce strain. Ideally, use a separate keyboard and mouse along with a riser to elevate the screen to eye level. If that setup isn’t possible, consider connecting the laptop to a separate monitor to achieve a more ergonomic position.
For tablets and phones, always stay aware of your surroundings, especially when walking, using stairs, or crossing roads. Distraction from screens in these situations can increase the risk of accidents.
Guidance and training
We provide detailed guidance on the DSE risk assessment process along with templates to complete on our client H&S Portal.
We can also provide training if you and your business need further assistance on this matter. Please click here to see our training brochure for more information.
In summary
- Conduct workstation (DSE) assessments.
- Ensure that maintaining “good posture” is promoted.
- Ensure work is varied and breaks from equipment are taken.
- Ensure eyesight testing is provided as requested.
- Ensure training and information is provided to all relevant employees.
If you need help with this or another query, please do not hesitate to contact us.