Office Workplace Assessment
This is also known as a Display Screen Equipment (DSE) Workstation Assessment. The aim of the assessment is to give advice on how to make the employee more comfortable whilst at work.
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All aspects of the workstation are assessed including the chair, desk, equipment, screen and layout. Simple modifications, advice and education are provided to the employee at the time of assessment. A full report is provided with details of any adjustments that have been made and if any additional equipment is required.
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Any Employee who is experiencing musculoskeletal issues and spends more than 50% of their day at a desk would benefit form an Office Workplace Assessment.
What is a Desk Space Environment (DSE)?
​DSE are devices or equipment that have an alphanumeric or graphic display screen and includes display screens, laptops, touch screens and other similar devices.
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What are the health risks with DSE?
Some workers may experience fatigue, eye strain, upper limb problems and backache from overuse or improper use of DSE. These problems can also be experienced from poorly designed workstations or work environments. The causes may not always be obvious and can be due to a combination of factors.
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Employer Responsibility
Health and Safety Guidance from the HSE states that if workers use display screen equipment (DSE) daily, as part of their normal work, continuously for an hour or more, then employers must do a workstation assessment.
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Employers should look at:
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The whole workstation, including equipment, furniture, and work conditions.
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The job being done.
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Any special requirements of a member of staff, for example a worker with a disability
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Where there are risks, they should take steps to reduce them.
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Employers must also do an assessment when:
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A new workstation is set up.
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A new user starts work.
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A change is made to an existing workstation or the way it’s used.
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Users complain of pain or discomfort.