The Health and Safety (Display Screen Equipment Regulations) were originally written in 1992 and amended in 2002. Since this time technology has developed and changed significantly over the years. We are increasingly using display screen equipment (DSE) within our professional and personal lives, with an estimated 90% of the work force using display screen equipment. Due to these reasons the regulations are in need of being updated but until this takes place, employers still have a duty of care for their employees when using DSE.
Therefore, it is important for employers to consider two things:
1. Who the legislation applies to, and
2. the type of equipment this legislation relates to.
These regulations only apply to workers who use display screen equipment daily, for continuous periods of an hour or more. It is the responsibility of the employer to identify each individual member of the work force who this applies to. This includes individuals working at home or alternative locations as well as at the main place of work.
Display screen equipment is any screen which displays information. Traditionally this looked like an old-fashioned large television monitor however it now includes smart phones, laptops, notebooks, tablets or screens for programming computer numerical control machinery. All these types of equipment need to be considered.
The use of technology today encourages many of us to spend prolonged and excessive periods of time looking at our screens. The potential risks from prolonged and improper use of display screen equipment include:
• Eye strain – visual fatigue, dryness, irritation and blurriness due to prolonged screen exposure.
• Musculoskeletal problems such as repetitive strain injuries or back and neck pain due to poor posture or excessive use of a keyboard.
• Sedentary behaviours which can lead to other health risks including obesity.
• Sleep fatigue.
• Mental health issues, such as stress or burnout.
According to ‘Osteopaths for industry’, 36% of all musculoskeletal disorders in the workplace come as a result of awkward or tiring positions while using DSE.
To prevent harm to employees using DSE, employers should:
• Undertake a DSE risk assessment to identify any potential hazards.
• Provide training on the use of DSE.
• Provide suitable workstations and equipment.
• Promote a culture of health and wellbeing.
• Provide an eye test to DSE users or potential users if they request one. Users are also entitled to further tests if DSE work is considered to cause them visual fatigue and at regular intervals after the first test.
• If the user needs glasses specifically for DSE work, the employer must pay for a basic pair of frames and lenses.
Fulfilling your duty of care to display screen equipment users not only fulfils a legal obligation, it is also an investment in the workforce, which impacts on the workforce’s productivity, morale reputation and overall success.
For further support in managing your DSE requirements, please contact us at riskmanagement@thecleargroup.com
