Use of Display Screen Equipment (DSE) or computers and keyboards is a common workplace activity that has several associated ill-health issues.
These include:
- WRULDs
- Back pain
- Eye strain
- Fatigue and stress
These health effects can occur when using desktop computers but are becoming increasingly common in association with the use of laptops when they are used for long-duration work.
So what can be done to reduce these risks? The following control measures are a perfect place to start:
- Carry out a workstation assessment of the user’s workstation to ensure that the equipment and environment meet minimum standards and that the workstation can be adjusted to suit the user. The HSE have a very help assessment form that can be found here: Display screen equipment (DSE) workstation checklist
- Provide basic DSE workstation equipment that meets minimum standards in terms of good ergonomic design.
- Plan the user’s work routine so that they can take short, frequent breaks from the screen and keyboard use.
- Provide DSE users with a free eye test, if required, spectacles for screen use.
- Provide information and training to users on the potential health risks of DSE use and the preventive measures – in particular, ergonomic use of the workstation.
The following are also good ergonomics at a DSE workstation:
- Adjustable height and angle to seat back
- Good lumbar support
- Adjustable height seat to bring the hands to a comfortable position on the keyboard.
- Correct seat height adjustment and keeping the feet supported prevents excess pressure on underside of thighs and backs of knees.
- Foot support if user cannot get their feet on the floor.
- Space for postural change, no obstacles under the desk.
- Forearms approximately horizontal when hands are on the keyboard
- Minimal extension, flexion or deviation of wrists, wrists should be straight and flat when on the keyboard indicating proper seat height adjustment.
- Screen height and tilt should be adjustable so as to allow comfortable head position.
- Space in front of the keyboard to support hands/wrists during pauses in typing, a wrist-rest can provide further support if required.
This is by no means an exhaustive list, but should provide a good base in which to build on and improve your DSE workstations. We hope that you have found this DSE guidance helpful.