Display Screen Equipment (DSE) includes computers used in offices and also workstations associated with robotic systems in laboratories. DSE also includes laptops and tablets.
Workstations that have been set up incorrectly can lead to problems, such as:
It is important that workstations have sufficient space to allow you to move your arms and legs without restriction and to adopt a comfortable posture. Computer monitors should be positioned so that they can be clearly seen without the display flickering and without glare from overhead or other lights.
It is advisable to take breaks on a frequent basis. While this may be hard during the writing of papers or grants, even brief breaks can reduce fatigue in muscles and joints and reduce the likelihood of problems developing.
The HSE has produced guidance on how to set up your workstation correctly.
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Each individual who uses a computer for work at St George's must complete a DSE self-assessment annually and must have discussed the results either with their line manager or a designated DSE Assessor in their department. The discussion should include any problems identified during the risk assessment including postural issues.
Any individual regularly working remotely must also complete an assessment for their home workstation and discuss the results with their line manager.
St George’s operates an eye care policy entitling indivdiuals to free eye tests in certain circumstances.
Your DSE assessment must be in date before contacting the department to obtain a voucher.
Please discuss your DSE assessment with your line manager and ask them to refer you for an eye test if required.
If your DSE assessment is still in date and no changes have been made to your work station since you last undertook it and you feel you would benefit from an eye test, please discuss this with your line manager and ask them to refer you to the SHE office for an eye test.
For referrals and for more information on the eye test voucher scheme contact the SHE office.
An Excel spreadsheet for managers to help with recording your team's DSE Risk Assessments completion can be found here:
S10 DSE Training and RA Completion Record - Staff
Laptop users should be aware that due to the size and shape of the machines there is an increased risk of ergonomic injuries.
Laptops should be set-up so that you are able to maintain a good posture without continually hunching forwards and compressing the shoulders and spine. If the laptop is to be used in the office, it is advisable to attach it to a docking station so that it can be used with a full size keyboard, pointing device and screen.
Individuals should take care to set up their laptops at home in an ergonomic manner to avoid postural and other problems occurring.
Individuals should also think about movement of the laptop between sites as large heavy machines or lighter machines with associated power supplies have the potential to cause muscular injuries.
Wrist supports for typing and mouse wrist supports can help as can other mouse designs. Footrests can also help avoid MSD by reducing the weight resting on individual’s thighs.
Keyboards are also available in a variety of styles such as the curved systems and compact models.
Trackballs can be used instead of standard mice for individuals who find that using a standard mouse causes them problems. Trackballs can be operated using the fingers or palm of the hand and require less muscular effort. Most models of trackballs can be operated using either the left or right hand.
Voice recognition software is such as Dragon Speech Recognition, Dragon for Mac can be purchased to assist individuals by reducing the need for typing.
There are several shortcuts for routine operations in the Microsoft Office suite which can be used to reduce mouse operations and key strokes.
There are several programmes available on the Internet that can be downloaded and which will remind you to take breaks. Some of the programmes are free and some require a licence.
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Workrave. This runs in Windows and also on Linux machines and is free.
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WorkPace. This runs on Microsoft Windows XP, Vista, Windows 7. A licence is required.
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RSI-Shield. This requires a licence.
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MacBreakZ. This runs on OS X.
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Anti-RSI This runs on OS X.