What is Display Screen Equipment (DSE)?
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) defines DSE as any device with an alphanumeric or graphic display screen. This includes:
Desktop computers and laptops
Tablets, smartphones, and portable computers
Touchscreens, including kiosks and mobile phones
VDUs (Visual Display Units) and VDU screens
Non-electronic display systems, such as microfiche
CCTV and similar display systems that are used for work
Even short periods of regular monitor use can trigger the legal duties outlined in the regulations.
What are VDUs and VDU Equipment?
VDUs, or Visual Display Units, are another name for screen-based devices. These include monitors, laptops, and terminals. VDU equipment is fully covered under the Display Screen Equipment Regulations. These regulations ensure all devices, whether fixed or portable, are used safely over long periods.
If a member of staff uses a VDU for a significant part of their daily role, even if only for continuous periods of an hour, employers have legal responsibilities to support safe and healthy use.
What are the Display Screen Equipment Regulations 1992?
Also known as the Display Screen Equipment Regulations 2002, these regulations form part of the UK’s wider health and safety law. They apply to workers who use display screen equipment for long periods of time or perform frequent tasks, typically for an hour or more at a time, daily.
The regulations were created to protect against health risks associated with DSE work, such as:
Neck pain and back pain
Musculoskeletal problems (e.g., RSI)
Eye strain or visual fatigue
Mental stress caused by poor working conditions or improper training
The regulations also outline minimum requirements for workstation setups and employer support. You can read more about the regulations here.
Who Do the Display Screen Equipment Regulations Apply To?
These regulations apply to all workers who:
Use DSE as a significant part of their normal work
Operate screens for continuous periods of an hour or more
Use screens daily or nearly every working day
This includes full-time and part-time staff, hot-desking workers, remote workers, and those who use portable computers, tablets, or mobile phones as part of their job.
What Do the Display Screen Equipment Regulations Require?
Employer Responsibilities
Under the Health & Safety Display Screen Equipment Regulations 1992, employers must:
Conduct a workstation risk assessment for each DSE user
Ensure each setup meets minimum workstation requirements
Plan work to include breaks or changes in activity
Provide free eye and eyesight tests upon request
Contribute to the cost of basic glasses if required for screen work
Offer adequate training on the safe use of display screen equipment
Manage risks from hot desking, shared equipment, and mobile use
You can learn more about DSE responsibilities for employers here. (LINK)
Employee Responsibilities
Staff who meet the definition of a DSE user also have responsibilities:
Follow the training and use DSE equipment correctly
Report any issues such as eye strain, discomfort, or poor ergonomics
Take regular breaks to reduce fatigue
Help maintain a safe and effective workstation environment
You can read up on what is expected of employees using DSE here. (LINK)
What Are the Main Health Risks of Using DSE?
1. Physical Health Risks
Musculoskeletal problems: Back pain, neck strain, and repetitive strain injury (RSI)
Poor posture caused by an improper chair or screen height
Injuries from continuous DSE use without breaks or stretching
2. Visual Strain
Eye strain, dry eyes, and headaches from extended screen time
Visual fatigue can occur even if eyesight is otherwise healthy
Especially common when using tablets, smartphones, or mobile screens for long periods
3. Psychological Impact
Mental stress that is linked to workload, lack of breaks, or poor workstation setup
Stress may be increased by poor lighting, noise, or inadequate training
Lack of understanding of software tools may add to frustration or anxiety
DSE Risk Assessments: A Legal Requirement
Under the DSE regulations, employers must carry out a risk assessment for any member of staff who uses screens for continuous periods of an hour or more.
The assessment covers the entire workstation setup, not just the screen, and includes furniture, lighting, posture, and environmental factors. Assessments should be reviewed when new users join, when equipment changes, or when concerns are raised. If five or more employees use screens, a written record of the assessment is required.
Read more about how to carry out a DSE Risk Assessment here. (LINK)
DSE and Working from Home
The safe use of monitors applies equally to remote and home-based workers. An assessment should be completed for all staff working from home who regularly use screens, just as it would be in an office setting.
Key considerations include ergonomic setup, lighting, time, and regular breaks. Employers remain responsible for ensuring their staff can work safely from home, whether using a laptop, desktop, or other devices. Self-assessment tools may be used where appropriate, but support and guidance must still be provided.
You can explore best practices for DSE when working from home here. (LINK)
Is Display Screen Equipment Training Mandatory?
Yes. Under Regulation 6 of the Display Screen Equipment Regulations 1992, employers must ensure that every user receives adequate health and safety training in the use of any workstation they may be required to work at.
Training should cover:
Safe workstation setup
Adjusting seating, lighting, and screens
Avoiding health risks associated with long-term DSE work
Use of assistive technology or workstation adaptations where necessary
Conclusion
The incorrect use of DSE, even for a short time, can cause long-term health issues. Whether staff use VDUs, portable computers, or smartphones, it's important that:
Employers carry out workstation risk assessments and address hazards
Employees understand their responsibilities and take regular breaks
Organisations follow best practices and go beyond minimum legal compliance
For full training that meets DSE regulations, consider enrolling staff in our online Display Screen Equipment Training course.
