WHAT IS A VISUAL DISPLAY EQUIPMENT ASSESSMENT?

An assessment of the risks to your staff from working at Display Screen Equipment during their working day.

WHO DOES IT APPLY TO?

Everybody, who during the working day may be expected/required to work on Display Screen Equipment (such as PCs, Laptops, Tills or Programming Devices for machinery with Display Screens)

WHY DO WE ASSESS?

The HSE have very extensive guidelines on the risks from working at display screen equipment and work related injuries caused by it such as Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSI) and Work Related Upper Limb Disorders (WRULDs) that could have been prevented  A incorrectly set up monitor can result in severe headaches to the operator, but can be easily sorted.

WHAT SHOULD BE ASSESSED?

 Every task that involves working on any Display Screen Equipment needs to be assessed, this does not just include desktop computers but can include computer controlled machinery with visual displays, POS terminals etc.

PREPARING FOR AN ASSESSMENT

 It should be determined who works on Display Screen Equipment and at which Work Stations they usually work. Any restrictions on staff due to medical reasons need to be discovered, this can range from previous histories of back complaints, to pregnancy.

CARRYING OUT ASSESSMENTS

 Ideally the assessment should be carried out using forms devised by the HSE (in the guidance notes) or covering the same areas of assessment. All employees working on Display Screen Equipment should be assessed whether they are what are classified as “Users” or not, as well as their personal needs and using habits. All work stations should be assessed as to the condition of equipment , access to the equipment and the other factors pertinent to providing a low risk working environment.

COLLECTING AND USING THE RESULTS

 The assessment will indicate which employees require attention in order to reduce risks to your staff and will help to prioritise any remedial actions. The report should include advice on changes to using habits that will decrease the risks to staff and guidance if a member of staff should seek specialist medical advice, it may include recommendations on equipment (changes required or replacement) that could reduce risks.

SPECIALIST ASSESSMENT

If members of staff suffer medical conditions caused by the work on Display Screen Equipment, specialist medical advice should be sought.

For more information on Visual Display Equipment