Display Screen Equipment (DSE) Policy

Workstation Guidance

Please read the following recommendations, which should be considered prior to completing your self-assessment form below.

Chair

• Sit close to the desk and sit with your lower back touching the back rest.
• Avoid leaning forwards or perching on the edge of your chair.
• Familiarise yourself with your chair mechanisms.
• Adjust chair height to align elbows; they should be slightly higher or level with wrists (sitting right-angled allowing minimum clearance under the wrists).
• Lumbar support, if available, should be positioned in the small of your back.
• Feet should be flat on the floor.
• If possible, use the free-float option of the chair to avoid static postures.
• Armrests should only be used when resting, not when typing.
• If the chair arms prevent you from sitting close enough to the desk, they should be removed.

Monitor

• Should be placed in the curved, or the widest section of your desk.
• When you are seated in the correct position at the desk, the screen should be positioned approximately one arm's-length away from you.
• Eyes should be level with the top part (toolbar — 10%–20% variance) of the screen. Use a separate screen and riser, or a laptop stand, to achieve this.

Keyboard and Mouse

• Position the keyboard about 10cm/4ins from the edge of the desk.
• Keep your mouse close to the side of the keyboard and the edge of the desk.
• Try not to press wrists down on the desk whilst using mouse/keyboard and keep wrists straight (not bent up or down).
• Use keyboard shortcuts as much as possible to reduce mouse use.
• Avoid using wrist rests.

Phone

• Position phone equipment on the opposite side to the mouse.
• Keep close and never cradle between ear/shoulder.
• Use a headset or loudspeaker wherever possible.
• Do not answer your phone or check messages while driving unless you are using a hands-free option or a headset.

Paperwork

• Should be kept to a minimum.
• Avoid placing paper in front of the keyboard and then leaning over it to type.
• Document holders should be used if required, for copy typing/writing or reading.

Environment

• Office based — report any problems with light levels, heat, noise or air to the Operations Manager who will, where possible, take remedial action.
• Home based — be mindful of air quality, heat, noise and light levels in your workspace and adjust where you can. If you need additional equipment please discuss this with the Operations Manager.

Breaks & Eyes

• Breaks: Take short breaks approximately every hour and change your posture frequently.
• Eyes: Look away from your screen regularly to prevent visual fatigue — focus on something in the distance for a few moments and then resume activity. A regular eye test is recommended.

Mobile Device (not including laptops)

• For calls, brief email and calendar use only.
• Not a suitable replacement for laptop or PC.
• Prolonged use may lead to problems with finger tendons/joints.

Workstation Self-Assessment Form

Please read the workstation guidance above and incorporate any recommended changes before completing this form. Answer the following questions about your workstation to help us analyse your working environment, giving further detail where questions are answered "yes".