When is a DSE workstation assessment required?
Updated · UK law and HSE guidance
Short answer
Employers must assess workstations for display screen equipment users and reduce identified risks. HSE describes users as workers who use DSE daily for continuous periods of an hour or more. Assess every regular work setting, including home and office, plan breaks or activity changes, provide training and fund requested eye tests.
| Typical user test | DSE used daily for continuous periods of 1 hour or more |
|---|---|
| Locations | Assess regular office, home and hybrid settings |
| Breaks | Plan breaks or changes of activity |
| Eye test | Employer arranges and pays when a DSE user requests one |
| Special glasses | Employer pays where needed only for DSE viewing distance |
| Equipment cost | Worker cannot be charged for required controls |
Who and what to assess
Identify workers who habitually use display screens as a significant part of normal work. HSE's practical description includes daily use for continuous periods of an hour or more; occasional short use at home is outside that example. Assess the complete workstation and task: screen, keyboard, pointing device, software, desk, chair, environment and how work is organised.
- Cover both home and office where the worker routinely uses each
- Allow trained workers to self-assess where suitable
- Act on discomfort, changed equipment or changed work patterns
Control posture and work routine
Adjust equipment so the worker can maintain a comfortable, sustainable posture and avoid glare, awkward reach and prolonged static work. The law requires employers to plan work so users have breaks or changes of activity. HSE does not prescribe a universal timed formula; short, frequent changes are normally more effective than infrequent long breaks, and users should have some control where possible.
- Provide necessary equipment without charging the worker
- Give workstation and good-practice training
- Encourage early reporting of aches, pain, fatigue or visual discomfort
Eye tests and review
Arrange and pay for a full eye and eyesight test when a DSE user requests one. Pay for basic special corrective appliances only where the test shows they are required specifically for the DSE viewing distance; ordinary glasses are not automatically payable. Review assessments after significant change or reported problems and implement findings. SitePaper can generate a DSE assessment for trained or competent review.
- Explain how workers request a test
- Reassess after relocation or material equipment change
- Keep health information confidential and records proportionate
Sources
- HSE: Working with DSE at home
- HSE: DSE work routine and breaks
- HSE: DSE eye tests
- HSE: Working with display screen equipment
This guide summarises UK law and HSE guidance for small businesses. It is not legal advice; check the sources and your own circumstances.