The Health and Safety (Display Screen Equipment) Regulations 1992 (as amended) set out specific requirements for employees who regularly use display screen equipment (DSE) — computers, laptops, tablets, and smartphones — as a significant part of their work.
Who Is Covered?
The regulations apply to "users" — employees who use DSE daily, for continuous periods of an hour or more, as part of their normal work. This covers most office workers, remote workers, and hybrid employees.
Employer Obligations
- Carry out DSE workstation assessments — evaluate the workstation setup including screen, keyboard, mouse, chair, desk, and lighting
- Reduce risks identified — adjust equipment, furniture, or working practices to minimise risk
- Provide information and training — on good posture, regular breaks, and how to adjust equipment
- Provide eye tests — upon request, pay for an eye test and contribute to the cost of glasses if they are specifically needed for DSE work
- Ensure regular breaks — employees should take short, frequent breaks from DSE work (typically 5-10 minutes every hour)
Home and Hybrid Workers
Since the rise of remote working, employers have the same DSE obligations for home workers as for office-based staff. This means conducting home workstation assessments and providing or contributing to appropriate equipment.
Common Risks
Prolonged DSE use can cause musculoskeletal disorders (back pain, RSI, neck strain), visual fatigue, and stress. Proper workstation setup and regular breaks significantly reduce these risks.
Our risk assessment team can carry out DSE assessments for your office and remote workers. Arrange an assessment.