DSE Workstation assessment

It is the employer’s duty as outlined in the Health and Safety (Display Screen Equipment) Regulations as amended by the Health and Safety (Miscellaneous Amendments) Regulations 2002, to identify if employees would be classed as DSE Users, and assess their needs appropriately.

The definition of a DSE user is:

‘An employee who habitually uses DSE for a significant part of their working day’

If an employee has been identified as a DSE User, the employer must ensure that an appropriate DSE assessment has been undertaken, which is reviewed on a regular basis. The employee must co-operate with the employer. If the employee is considered fit and healthy with no long term conditions for example musculoskeletal disorders (MSD), and have received DSE training to ensure that they understand how to set their work station up; a DSE self-assessment can be undertaken.

This DSE self-assessment takes the employee through a series of questions to identify further action or equipment is required. The DSE assessment takes into account not only the direct equipment but also the surrounding environment. The self-assessment challenges the answers that are given by the employee and offers suggested solutions. Upon completion, the assessment is reviewed to ensure that no further action is required.