With the increasing prevalence of digital workspaces, the use of Display Screen Equipment (DSE) has become an integral part of almost every workplace.

Though not inherently dangerous, DSE can contribute to discomfort, aches, and even long-term disorders if not utilised correctly. This article provides a comprehensive guide to DSE Workstation Assessments and presents a detailed checklist to ensure a comfortable and productive workspace.

Understanding Display Screen Equipment

DSE, an acronym for Display Screen Equipment, refers to any device or equipment featuring a graphic, alphanumeric, or plasma display screen. Devices falling under the DSE umbrella include, but are not limited to:
· Desktop computers
· Laptops
· Tablets
· Smartphones
· Television screens
· Video monitors

Although sometimes referred to as ‘VDUs’ (Visual Display Units), DSE is the widely accepted term.

DSE Workstation Assessment: Key Requirements

Council Directive 90/270/EEC(a) sets forth the minimum health and safety requirements for DSE workstations. These stipulations cover various components of a typical digital workspace:

Display Screen (Monitor)
· The characters on the screen should be well-defined, clearly formed, legible, and spaced adequately.
· The image should be stable, without flickering or other forms of instability.
· Brightness and contrast should be easily adjustable according to the user’s comfort and ambient conditions.
· The screen should easily swivel and tilt to suit the user’s needs.
· The workstation should allow the use of a separate base for the screen or an adjustable table.
· The screen should be free of reflective glare and reflections that might cause discomfort.

Keyboard
· The keyboard should tilt and be separate from the screen, allowing comfortable positioning to avoid arm and hand fatigue.
· The area in front of the keyboard should be sufficient to support the user’s hands and arms.
· The keyboard should have a matt surface to avoid reflective glare.
· The keys’ arrangement should facilitate use, and the symbols should be adequately contrasted and legible.

Work Surface
· The workspace should have a large, low-reflectance surface and allow flexible arrangement of the screen, keyboard, and other equipment.
· A document holder, if used, should be stable, adjustable, and positioned to minimise uncomfortable head and eye movements.
· The user should have sufficient space for comfortable positioning.

Work Chair
· The work chair should be stable and allow easy movement and comfortable positioning.
· The chair should have adjustable height and tilt.
· The user’s feet should rest flat on the floor or a footrest.
· Space Requirements
· The workstation should provide sufficient space for the user to change position and vary movements.
· The desk should offer enough space for all necessary equipment.

Lighting
· Room lighting or task lighting should ensure satisfactory lighting conditions and appropriate contrast between the screen and background.
· Glare and reflections on the screen or other equipment should be minimised.
· Reflections and Glare
· Workstations should avoid direct glare and distracting reflections from sources of light.
· Windows should be fitted with adjustable coverings to control daylight that falls on the workstation.

Noise
· Noise from workstation equipment should be minimised to avoid distraction and disruption of speech. Noise-cancelling earphones might be an effective solution in certain circumstances.

Heat
· Equipment should not produce excess heat, which could cause discomfort.

Radiation
· All non-visible radiation should be reduced to negligible levels for the protection of operators’ or users’ health and safety.

Humidity
· An adequate level of humidity should be maintained in the workspace.
In conclusion, proper assessment and arrangement of DSE workstations are crucial for maintaining the health, safety, and productivity of employees. Following these guidelines and undertaking regular DSE Training can minimise the chances of developing musculoskeletal problems and ensure a comfortable working environment.

Contact us today to find out more information on workplace assessments.
Telephone 028 90 757757 or email info@ac-ni.com