If you or your employees spend long hours working with computers, laptops, multiple screens, touchscreens, smartphones or tablets, it’s important to ensure workstations are set up safely and comfortably. A well-designed workstation can significantly reduce discomfort, improve well-being, and support productivity.

Access Centre NI DSE Assessments

Access Centre NI (AC-NI) provides face-to-face Display Screen Equipment (DSE) assessments carried out by experienced, qualified assessors. Our assessments comply with the Health and Safety (Display Screen Equipment) Regulations 1992 and help employers meet their legal responsibilities while supporting the health and comfort of their staff.

DSE assessments are valuable for enhancing employee morale, reducing sickness absence, and creating a safer, more productive working environment.

Employers are required to complete a workstation assessment for any staff member who uses DSE daily for an hour or more. Our assessments take a holistic view of the workstation, including equipment, furniture, posture and environmental factors, identifying reasonable adjustments to support employees in their roles.

What Our Assessment Covers

During a DSE assessment, we review:

• Chair and desk height
• Desk layout
• Posture and positioning
• Display screen use
• Keyboard and mouse setup
• Overall workstation environment

This helps us identify risks and recommend practical adjustments to improve comfort and reduce strain.

Why DSE Matters

Display screen equipment can contribute to back, neck, shoulder and arm pain, as well as eyestrain and fatigue. Regular breaks, movement and an ergonomic setup are essential to maintaining employee well-being. For example, taking a short movement break every 30 minutes can improve comfort and circulation.

Supporting Employers

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) provide a useful workstation checklist that employers can use alongside our assessment process. It covers risk factors related to equipment, software, furniture and the work environment and can support compliance with DSE regulations.

Our Assessment Process

• Upon enquiry, a member of our team will make contact to confirm your assessment requirements
• Relevant medical information may be shared to assist with tailored recommendations
• Assessor will arrange a suitable date and time for a face-to-face assessment, which typically lasts around 1.5 hours
• Using a risk-based approach and checklist, the assessor will identify hazards through workstation observation and employee feedback before advising on appropriate adjustments
• Detailed report with recommendations will be provided within 20 working days (often sooner) for review by the employee, before being forwarded to their line manager

Related Resources

• hseni.gov.uk

Contact Us

To learn more about our DSE Assessment Service and how it can support you or your organisation, please get in touch.