Almost all businesses use computers these days, and with the rise in computer workstations new issues have arisen. A large proportion of display screen equipment (DSE) users report aches, pains and eye discomfort; many of these conditions do not indicate ill health, but it makes sense to avoid them wherever possible. Many of these discomforts are related to repetitive strain injuries (RSI) or upper limb disorders (ULD).
Common conditions associated with DSE users include:
- Neck ache
- Shoulder ache
- Back ache
- Arm pains
- Fatigue
- Eyestrain
- Headaches
- Stress
The Health and Safety (Display Screen Equipment) Regulations aim to protect the health of workers who use DSE. The regulations were introduced as DSE has become one of the most common kinds of work environment. There is potential to make the work more comfortable and productive by taking very few simple steps towards good workplace and job design, and the way the Visual Display Unit (VDU) and workstation is used.
The best method to analyse the situation is through a Display Screen Equipment Assessment, with the assessment looking at:
- The workstation, including equipment being used, furniture and the environment
- The job being done
- Special needs of individual staff
Where risks are identified steps must be taken to reduce them where practicable, but it is also down to the individual employees to also make adjustments to meet their needs, such as adjusting VDUs, chairs, blinds, computer peripherals (mouse, keyboard), and documents to get the best arrangement for themselves.
If you would like help on conducting a DSE Assessment in your workplace, call us now on 08456 588703.