Display Screen Equipment (DSE) is a part of everyday working life. Whether employees are working in an office, from home, or in a hybrid role, most spend a significant portion of their day using screens.
However, while DSE is essential for productivity, prolonged screen use and poor workstation setup can contribute to discomfort, fatigue and musculoskeletal issues. That’s why employers have a legal duty to assess DSE risks and provide employees with the information and training they need to work safely.
in this guide, we’ll explain what DSE is, why it matters, and how DSE training, assessments and checklists can help create healthier workplaces.
What is DSE?
DSE stands for Display Screen Equipment. It refers to devices with screens that display information and are used for work purposes.
Examples of DSE include:
- Desktop computers
- Laptops
- Tablets
- Smartphones
- Touchscreen devices
- Workstations with multiple monitors
Under the Health and Safety (Display Screen Equipment) Regulations, employers are responsible for protecting employees who regularly use DSE as part of their work. While DSE itself is not dangerous, the way it is used can affect employee health, comfort and wellbeing over time.
Why is DSE Important?
As workplaces become increasingly digital, employees are spending more time than ever using screens. Many workers now spend several hours each day at a workstation, often without realising the impact poor habits can have on their physical wellbeing.
Without proper workstation setup and regular movement, employees may experience:
- Neck and shoulder pain
- Back discomfort
- Wrist and arm strain
- Eye fatigue
- Headaches
- Reduced concentration
- General fatigue
These issues can affect productivity, employee wellbeing and, in some cases, contribute to long-term health concerns. The good news is that many DSE-related problems can be prevented through awareness, training and simple workstation adjustments.
Common Risks Associated with DSE
The risks associated with DSE are often gradual rather than immediate, making them easy to overlook.
Musculoskeletal Problems
Poor posture, inadequate seating and incorrectly positioned screens can place unnecessary strain on muscles and joints. Over time, this may lead to discomfort in the neck, back, shoulders, arms and wrists.
Eye Strain and Visual Fatigue
Extended periods of screen use can cause tired eyes, blurred vision and headaches. Employees may also experience difficulty focusing after long periods without breaks.
Poor Working Habits
Employees who work for long periods without changing position or taking breaks can experience increased fatigue and reduced productivity throughout the day. By identifying these risks early, organisations can take steps to support healthier and more comfortable ways of working.
Employer Responsibilities for DSE
Employers have a legal duty to protect employees who regularly use display screen equipment.
- Key responsibilities include:
- Conducting DSE assessments
- Reducing risks identified through assessments
- Providing suitable DSE training and information
- Supporting employees who work remotely or from home
- Reviewing assessments when working arrangements change
These responsibilities apply whether employees are based in a traditional office, working remotely, or following a hybrid working pattern.
What is a DSE Assessment?
A DSE assessment is a structured review of an employee’s workstation and working habits. Its purpose is to identify potential risks and ensure employees can work comfortably and safely. A typical DSE assessment considers factors such as:
- Chair setup and support
- Screen position and height
- Keyboard and mouse placement
- Desk layout
- Lighting and glare
- Working posture
- Breaks and movement throughout the day
DSE assessments help organisations identify issues before they develop into more significant problems.
What Should a DSE Checklist Include?
A DSE checklist provides employees with a practical way to review their workstation and identify areas for improvement.
An effective DSE checklist should cover:
Workstation Setup
- Is the screen positioned at a comfortable height?
- Is the keyboard placed correctly?
- Is there sufficient desk space?
Seating and Posture
- Is the chair adjusted properly?
- Are feet supported?
- Is posture comfortable and natural?
Environment
- Is lighting appropriate?
- Is screen glare minimised?
- Is the workspace suitable for focused work?
Working Habits
- Are regular breaks taken?
- Is movement encouraged throughout the day?
- Are discomfort and issues reported promptly?
Using a DSE checklist regularly can help employees maintain healthy working habits wherever they work.
Why DSE Training Matters
DSE training helps employees understand how to use display screen equipment safely and effectively. Rather than simply highlighting risks, effective training empowers employees to:
- Set up their workstation correctly
- Recognise signs of discomfort and strain
- Understand their responsibilities
- Adopt healthier working habits
- Reduce the likelihood of DSE-related issues
For organisations, DSE training can support compliance, improve employee wellbeing and contribute to a more productive workforce.
Supporting DSE Compliance with Training and Checklists
Creating a safe workstation doesn’t need to be complicated. With the right guidance, employees can make small adjustments that have a significant impact on comfort and wellbeing.
At Me Learning, we provide DSE training designed to help employees understand the risks associated with display screen equipment and develop safer working practices. To support this learning, we’ve also created a practical DSE checklist that helps employees assess their workstation and identify opportunities for improvement.
As screen-based work continues to play a central role in modern organisations, DSE training, assessments and checklists remain essential tools for promoting healthier, safer and more productive workplaces.
Frequently Asked Questions About DSE
What does DSE stand for?
DSE stands for Display Screen Equipment. It includes computers, laptops, tablets, smartphones and other devices with screens used for work.
Is DSE training a legal requirement?
Employers are required to provide information and training to employees who regularly use display screen equipment as part of their work.
Who needs a DSE assessment?
Any employee who regularly uses display screen equipment should have their workstation assessed to identify and reduce potential risks.
Can DSE assessments be completed for home workers?
Yes. Employers are responsible for supporting employees who work remotely or from home and should ensure DSE assessments cover home workstations where appropriate.
What is included in a DSE checklist?
A DSE checklist typically covers workstation setup, seating, posture, screen positioning, lighting, working habits and break patterns.
Have questions? Speak to one of our learning experts at enquiries@melearning.co.uk or call us 01273091301
