Display screen equipment (DSE) includes equipment that has an
alphanumeric or graphic display screen such as desktop computers,
laptops, notebooks, smart phones and touch screen devices (such as
tablet computers).
Why is DSE a problem?
The use of computer equipment is often blamed (usually wrongly)
for a wide range of health problems. Frequent and prolonged
use of DSE has been associated with upper limb disorders (ULDs)
(neck, shoulder, arm, wrist, hand pain including RSI), back pain,
eye discomfort (eg. headaches, tired eyes) and fatigue. Where
problems do occur, they are generally caused by the way the
equipment is used rather than the equipment itself (eg. poorly
adjusted workstation). It is worth noting that there is no
evidence that DSE use causes disease or permanent damage to the
eyes.
DSE regulations
- The DSE regulations require employers to minimise the risks of
DSE work by ensuring that workplaces and jobs are well
designed.
- The regulations apply where staff habitually use DSE as a
significant part of their normal work (including employees working
at home or mobile working).
- Employers are required to analyse workstations, assess and
reduce risks. A workstation is defined in the regulations as
including the screen, keyboard, mouse or other input device, desk,
chair and the immediate work environment.
Workstations should meet the minimum requirements laid down in
the Schedule to the DSE guidance on
regulations.
Common risk factors for working with DSE - click
here
Further information can be accessed through the following
sources:
HSE DSE webpages
Work with Display Screen Equipment: Health and
Safety (Display Screen Equipment) Regulations 1992 as amended by
the Health and Safety (Miscellaneous Amendments) Regulations
2002
The law on VDUs: An easy guide: Making sure
that your office complies with the Health and Safety (Display
Screen Equipment) Regulations 1992 as amended in 2002
Advice on mobile working (BT)
Sources of information on
MSDs