Importance of DSE Workstation Assessments for your Employees
As part of managing the health and safety of your business, you must regularly assess and control the risks in your workplace.
The purpose of these office worker workstation assessments is to ensure that the correct precautions are put in place to address the associated risks and potential hazards. This could be anything from electrical/display equipment defects to poor posture that impacts the health of office employees.
A comprehensive ergonomic risk assessment must be conducted once a year, though risks should need to be assessed on regular basis when a new machine, substance or procedure is put in place, as they could lead to new hazards. |
When evaluating display screen equipment, here is a list of what needs to be considered:
Workstation and equipment are set to ensure good posture
Work is planned to include regular breaks or change of activity
Adjustable blinds at windows to control natural light on screens
Glare and reflections on screen are avoided
Eye tests are provided for those who need them
Employees are encouraged to inform staff of any pain linked to computer use
If your employees use display screen equipment (DSE), such as computers or laptops, you need to make sure certain standards are met. As per the guidelines set out by the UK Government, businesses of all sizes need to carry out DSE workstation assessments to ensure Health and Safety at the workplace in compliance with the HSE (DSE) 1992 Act.
Employers should ensure employees are adopting good posture while at work. They must be trained to organise desk space to work comfortably and can adjust the lighting to avoid glare on the screen. Advised to take adequate breaks and know how to report problems.