What is a workstation assessment checklist?
A workstation assessment checklist is a clear way to analyse your workstation. The assessment is planned to discover improvements that would be worthwhile for the worker.
Another name for a workstation assessment is Display Screen Equipment (DSE) assessment, this is for anyone who uses a screen or any type of display equipment for an hour or more a day, whether that be in an office or in a home working environment. These assessments consist of a list of questions looking at your workstation set up. If you use a paper-based system for your DSE assessment, someone will review your answers and write actions to be taken. Whereas an online system, such as Ergopro, delivers immediate feedback.
Under the DSE Health and Safety Act 1992, it is mandatory for DSE assessments to be carried out; their importance lies in promoting employee health and shielding the company from potential legal repercussions.
What are the contents of a workstation assessment checklist?
Proper positioning of a keyboard
- Separate keyboards from screens are essential for proper hand positioning and posture at the workstation. The keyboard doesn’t require a tilt, as this can strain the wrists. A significant space is necessary between the keyboard and monitor to avoid distractions to the eyes and to prevent the worker from adopting a hunched posture.
- It is important for every individual to learn proper keyboard technique for efficient typing and faster work completion. Finally, all keys on the keypad should be clear and legible for ease and comfort while working.
Mouse or trackball
- The worker should have a separate mouse or trackball from the screen/computer. The worker’s hand and wrist should be placed on the table, with their arms being held in place by the arm rests on the chair.
- The accuracy of the mouse pointer should be changeable within the settings of the software as well as this the mouse should be working smoothly during the entirety of work.
Display screens
- For optimal work performance, a screen has to be clean and non-conflicting colour schemes are essential. All text should be of a size that is clear and comfortable to read. In addition to this, you should be up to date with eye tests and wearing appropriate eye wear, if needed, whilst working.
- All images and text should not be flickering or jittering. The size of the screen should correspond to the nature of the task at hand. For example, intricate work such as architecture design should have a bigger screen to be able to see all the fine details without hurting the workers eyes.
- A well-lit workplace is essential to prevent glare on computer screens. In addition, the screen should be able to swivel and tilt so that they are adaptable for any employee.
Software
- The software used by a company should be easy to use for all staff, and they should receive proper training to ensure they are proficient in its use.
Furniture
- The size of the work area should allow for all desk items to be reached without strain.
- Whatever chair being used should help correct posture and be adjustable so it can suit whoever is using it. The worker’s elbows to be in line with the desk, eyeline to be in line with the top of the screen being used, lower back should feel supported in the chair, and feet should lie flat on the floor without too much weight or pressure.
Environment
- The environment you are working in no matter where you’re working from is also very important. There should be room to move around with suitable lighting. Air levels and temperature should be comfortable with appropriate noise levels.
How can someone access this checklist and fill out a DSE assessment?
This checklist has an equivalent version on the HSE website in paper format. Nevertheless, it does not deliver individualized feedback or suggest resolutions for any concerns raised. After the assessment, you must either scan it in to store it electronically or it must be stored in a locked filing cabinet, as it contains personal information.
An individual DSE assessment, priced at £0.99 + VAT, is available from us. This cost-effective and expedient process includes a prompt report, delivered immediately after the assessment, detailing the areas that require attention. Additionally, it provides contact information for our DSE assessors who can help with any further questions about your workstation. Companies with under 20 employees are the primary focus of this evaluation due to its efficiency and affordability.
Ergopro is another form of DSE assessment and is aimed at slightly larger companies, ideally companies over 20 employees, as it also has a self-contained management system, so the employer doesn’t need to worry about keeping track of who has and who hasn’t completed their DSE assessment. The Ergopro system provides priority reports for anyone who needs further investigation within the company. In this program, you can also find self-guided training modules for acknowledged issues, which come with different assessments. Additionally, it utilizes a secure website with bank-level encription for storage of data, eliminating the need for extra administration.
What to take away from this blog post
- Anyone who spends an hour or more a day on a screen must take a DSE assessment by law.
- To make the most of your workstation, you must address the following six aspects of a DSE assessment checklist.
- There are several different ways to access a DSE assessment checklist, download a paper version from HSE, do a cost-effective online assessment, invest in a system which will help save time on the admin.
