Display Screen Equipment Assessment (DSE)

Ability Net LogoWorking with technology at the desktop can be a cause of discomfort and pain to many people.  Often these sensations of aching wrists and fingers, aching neck and shoulders can be helped with some fairly straight forward help.

The first step (and requirement for all organisations) is to carry out a DSE assessment.  This assessment aims to identify how you can adapt your workstation and working practices to reduce the risks of aches and pains.

The attached form can be downloaded and used to make an assessment.  The aim is to make necessary adjustments so for example:

• Move the screen to avoid Glare
• keep your desk clear from clutter
• Vary your work and change activities frequently
• identify any problems such as eye strain, mouse use, keyboard use that causes discomfort

The good people at Ability Net and the groups who work with them across the region, have some equipment such as special mice, keyboards etc. that may help you use the technology more easily.

Employers should remember that they have a responsibility to make reasonable adjustments to assist people with these issues.

One page I would suggest you visit is My Computer My Way

Organisations who can help

www.Getwithit.org.uk

www.illuminateict.org.uk

(if I have missed you off drop me a line and I will add you to the list)