Information
The use of computers (Display Screen Equipment) has become a significant part of everyday work for most people; however, use of computer equipment may cause injury or illness unless managed properly. This commonly includes musculoskeletal discomfort, headaches, and eyestrain. All computer workstations must be assessed so that any risks can be eliminated or reduced to the lowest extent reasonably practicable.
On starting employment with the University, staff who use computers are required to complete the mandatory training module ‘Health and Safety for Computer Users’ which is available on Queen’s Online (QOL) and every three years thereafter. This training provides advice on correct workstation set-up. On completion of the training, staff will be prompted to carry out a computer workstation self-assessment for all workstations that they use (including home offices), using the online DSE self-assessment form. Where issues are identified, the local DSE Assessor will be notified and agreed measures to reduce risk will be actioned.
The workstation self-assessment must be repeated on a 3-yearly basis or when there are significant changes, such as office relocation, or when experiencing pain when using computer equipment.
Records of completed DSE assessments are retained electronically and managed by the local DSE Assessor(s).
DSE Self-Assessment Check-List - Please complete an online self-assessment questionnaire which will be sent to your local workstation assessor. If you have just completed the Health and Safety for Computer Users training course, please allow one day to pass before you complete the questionnaire so that the self-assessment system has access to your most recent training record.
Local DSE Assessors
Local DSE Assessors act as a point of contact for staff and can advise on correct workstation set-up. They will respond to staff who raise issues through the self-assessment process or who report problems, will examine the workstation set-up, and discuss concerns with the staff member, and will liaise with relevant Line Manager regarding any amendments which are required.
All local DSE Assessors must attend the University training, with refresher training recommended every 3 years. Local DSE Assessors may escalate more complex cases to the University Safety Service for further assessment and assistance.
Agile Working
Where staff work from home a computer workstation risk assessment is also required (please amend location from the office to ‘home’ and repeat the assessment). The local DSE Assessor or Line Manager will discuss responses with the staff member and attempt to resolve concerns. Where it is not practicable to provide duplicate equipment for use at home it may be recommended that the staff member works on campus with the equipment already provided for their use.
Learn more about People and Culture's Hybrid Working Health and Safety information
Eyesight Testing
All computer users employed by the University can book a free eye examination with the university approved optician. Some staff will be entitled to free prescription safety glasses or screen distance glasses. See below for the eyesight testing application form.
Further Guidance and Information
- Display Screen Equipment Policy
- Advice for computer users - "Are you sitting comfortably?"
- Health and Safety Executive Leaflet - Working with display screen equipment (DSE) - a brief guide
- Display Screen Equipment (DSE) Computer Workstation Assessors' List
- Posturite Infographic: Neck Pain in Office Workers
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