Display Screen Equipment (DSE) is part of everyday working life. From offices and schools to home and hybrid environments, millions of employees use screens for significant portions of their day. Understanding DSE regulations, workstation ergonomics and employer responsibilities is essential to prevent injury and remain compliant.
In this comprehensive guide, we answer the most commonly searched DSE questions in the UK.
Basics and Definitions
What is DSE (Display Screen Equipment)?
Display Screen Equipment (DSE) refers to any device with a display screen used for work purposes. DSE regulations apply to employees who regularly use such equipment as part of their normal duties.
What counts as DSE equipment?
DSE includes equipment with alphanumeric or graphic display screens, including monitors, laptops and similar devices used for work tasks.
What devices are included in DSE (laptops, tablets, phones)?
Devices typically included are:
- Desktop computers and monitors
- Laptops
- Tablets
- Touchscreens
- Smartphones (where used extensively for work)
What is a DSE assessment?
A DSE assessment is a workstation risk assessment designed to identify hazards such as poor posture, incorrect screen positioning, unsuitable chairs or lighting issues. The purpose is to reduce musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), eye strain and fatigue.
Legal Responsibilities and Compliance
Who needs a DSE assessment?
Any employee who uses display screen equipment for a significant part of their working day should receive a DSE assessment.
Who is classed as a DSE user?
A DSE user is someone who:
- Uses DSE daily or for continuous periods
- Relies on DSE to perform their job
- Has limited discretion over screen use
What are employer duties under DSE regulations?
Employers must:
- Carry out workstation assessments
- Reduce identified risks
- Provide information and training
- Offer eye tests where requested
- Review assessments when circumstances change
How often should DSE assessments be done?
DSE assessments should be completed:
- When an employee starts a role
- When workstations change
- When discomfort is reported
- Periodically as good practice (often annually)
Do home workers need a DSE assessment?
Yes. Employers remain responsible for the health and safety of home workers and must ensure their workstation setup is assessed.
Health Risks and Symptoms
Can DSE cause back pain or RSI?
Yes. Poor workstation setup can contribute to back pain, neck strain, shoulder tension and repetitive strain injuries (RSI).
What are the risks of computer work?
Common risks include:
- Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs)
- Eye strain
- Headaches
- Fatigue
- Stress
Can screen work damage eyesight?
Screen work does not cause permanent eye damage, but it can lead to temporary eye strain and visual discomfort.
What symptoms are caused by poor workstation setup?
Symptoms may include:
- Lower back pain
- Neck and shoulder discomfort
- Wrist pain
- Tingling or numbness
- Blurred vision
- Frequent headaches
Workstation Setup and Ergonomics
How should a workstation be set up?
A safe workstation should include:
- Screen positioned at eye level
- Chair adjusted to support the lower back
- Feet flat on the floor or on a footrest
- Keyboard and mouse within comfortable reach
- Minimal glare and adequate lighting
Where should my monitor be positioned?
The top of the screen should be roughly at eye level and about an arm’s length away.
What is the correct chair height?
Chair height should allow elbows to sit at roughly 90 degrees with forearms parallel to the desk.
How should keyboard and mouse be positioned?
They should be placed directly in front of the user, close enough to avoid stretching, with wrists kept straight and relaxed.
What is good posture for DSE work?
Good posture includes:
- Back supported by the chair
- Shoulders relaxed
- Elbows close to the body
- Feet flat and stable
Breaks, Working Patterns and Productivity
How often should I take DSE breaks?
Short, frequent breaks are recommended. This could involve standing, stretching or changing tasks.
What is a DSE break?
A DSE break is time spent away from continuous screen work, ideally performing a different task that reduces visual and postural strain.
How long can I work at a computer safely?
There is no strict time limit, but prolonged uninterrupted screen use should be avoided. Regular task variation and breaks reduce risk.
Eye Tests and Glasses
Do employers have to pay for eye tests?
Yes. Employers must provide eye tests for DSE users upon request.
Do I get DSE glasses paid for?
If special corrective appliances are required solely for screen work, employers must cover the cost of basic lenses.
Can screens damage eyesight?
Screens do not cause long-term eye damage, but they can cause temporary discomfort and dryness.
Equipment and Reasonable Adjustments
What equipment should employers provide for DSE users?
Employers may need to provide:
- Adjustable chairs
- Laptop risers
- External keyboards and mice
- Footrests
- Anti-glare solutions
Do I need a footrest, laptop riser or ergonomic chair?
These may be required if a standard setup cannot be adjusted to achieve safe posture.
What are reasonable adjustments for DSE?
Reasonable adjustments may include specialist chairs, adapted keyboards, voice recognition software or modified working hours for employees with medical conditions.
DSE Assessments for Specific Groups
Do I need a DSE assessment for home workers?
Yes. Home working setups must be assessed to ensure compliance and safety.
Do I need a DSE assessment for pregnant workers?
Yes. A risk assessment should consider pregnancy-related changes and adjust workstations if required.
Do I need a DSE assessment for schools or teachers?
Yes. Teachers and school staff who regularly use computers are covered by DSE regulations.
Are there any special regulations regarding DSE for hybrid working?
There are no separate regulations, but employers must ensure both office and home setups are assessed and risks controlled.
Training and Certification
Is DSE training mandatory?
Employers must provide information and training to ensure employees understand DSE risks and safe workstation use.
What DSE courses are required?
Organisations typically provide DSE awareness training, workstation assessor training, or online DSE e-learning.
How long does DSE training last?
Basic awareness training often takes 30–60 minutes. Assessor-level training may take half a day.
Do employees need refresher training?
Refresher training is recommended periodically and whenever working arrangements change.
Ready to Improve Your DSE Compliance and Internal Expertise?
Whether you need basic awareness training or want to build in-house DSE assessment capability, we offer a range of specialist Display Screen Equipment courses to suit your organisation.
- DSE Assessor Training – Ideal for those responsible for carrying out workstation assessments and ensuring compliance with regulations
- Advanced DSE Assessor Training – Designed for experienced assessors managing complex cases, reasonable adjustments, and higher-risk environments
- DSE Assessor Train the Trainer Course – Perfect for organisations wanting to deliver DSE training internally and develop their own competent trainers
- DSE Awareness for Managers – A practical course helping managers understand their legal duties, risk assessment responsibilities and how to support their teams effectively
If you’re unsure which course is right for your business, contact our team for expert guidance. We’ll help you select the most appropriate DSE training solution to keep your organisation compliant, productive and protected.
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