Display Screen Equipment
This passage discusses the health issues associated with working on display screen equipment (DSE) like computers. It mentions problems like upper limb disorders, eyestrain, headaches, fatigue, and stress. Though only a small number of DSE users suffer from these issues, prompt reporting and action are crucial to prevent worsening conditions. The causes might not always be clear but taking measures like proper sitting posture and regular screen breaks can effectively mitigate risks.
Legal regulations like the Health and Safety (Display Screen Equipment) Regulations govern DSE work, emphasizing the need for risk assessment and control measures. The code of practice outlined here applies to all University employees who frequently use DSE for work, including those off-campus and even non-employee operators working for the University. Detailed guidelines and necessary forms are available on the University's Health and Safety web pages for reference.
Display Screen Equipment (DSE) as alphanumeric or graphic display screens, including various types like cathode ray tube, liquid crystal or plasma displays, touchscreens, etc., used for displaying graphics, data, or working with images. It outlines exclusions, such as DSE for public use, non-prolonged portable systems, and certain scientific equipment. It also covers the inclusion of portable equipment used significantly in normal work under this code.
The term "workstation" refers to DSE and its surroundings, encompassing components like disk drives, chairs, desks, lighting, and software interfaces, meeting minimum requirements set by regulations. A "user" is a university employee who regularly uses DSE as a significant part of their work, meeting specific criteria outlined in the document. It clarifies that post-graduate and research students are generally considered users, while undergraduates are not, although minimum workstation requirements are considered in campus facilities.
"Operators" perform similar tasks to users but aren't University employees. An "assessment" involves analysing workstations to identify potential hazards and evaluate health and safety risks for users. An "eye and eyesight test" refers to a sight test defined by the Opticians Act legislation, to be conducted by qualified professionals as specified by relevant guidelines.
This policy outlines entitlements and procedures for DSE (Display Screen Equipment) users regarding eye tests and corrective appliances:
Entitlement to Eye Tests - DSE users can request eye tests at their chosen optometrist near their home or workplace.
Tests are required - at intervals specified by the optician, when experiencing visual difficulties related to DSE work, every five years if the above conditions don't apply.
Time Off for Tests - Reasonable time off is granted for appointments, with a week's notice for routine tests unless related to DSE work.
Eye Test Form - Users must bring a form to the appointment for the optician to complete, the University doesn't cover the form's signing cost.
Payment for Tests and Corrective Appliances - Users pay for tests and general corrective appliances, the University may contribute to basic spectacles necessary for DSE work, reimbursement is subject to specific conditions and budget limits.
Reimbursement Procedure - Users submit completed forms and receipts to their manager for reimbursement, the University reimburses within specified maximums for tests and DSE-specific spectacles.
Care of Special Appliances - Users are responsible for the care and replacement of special spectacles obtained for DSE work.
The University's reimbursement is subject to set limits, and users are accountable for maintaining and replacing their specialized DSE spectacles.
This document outlines responsibilities regarding Display Screen Equipment (DSE) use in a university setting. It specifies obligations for various roles:
Faculty Operating Officers and Directors of Offices must appoint DSE Assessors, ensure their training and resources, inform relevant units about Assessors, provide health and safety training to users/operators, rectify workstation faults, address health-related issues, and more.
DSE Assessors are responsible for training, informing users about health effects of DSE work, conducting assessments, reporting findings, reviewing assessments regularly, and coordinating eye tests.
DSE users are expected to complete online training, annual workstation assessments, use equipment properly, adjust workstations if feasible, report discomfort, follow eye test procedures, and care for DSE-related spectacles.
The University Health & Safety Unit advises, provides training, reviews implementation, collaborates with various parties, conducts formal assessments, and offers advice on health and safety issues.
The University Occupational Health and Wellbeing Service performs medical assessments, offers confidential health advice, identifies ergonomic issues, and refers users for appropriate medical attention.
Human Resources liaises with health and safety units, provides information to new staff, and collaborates on health or medical issues.
Other departments, such as Procurement and Business Services and Information and Library Services, seek advice and assist in sourcing suitable suppliers and equipment as per health and safety standards.
The blog on Display Screen Equipment provides valuable insights into maintaining safety and comfort while working with screens. Proper ergonomic practices and awareness can greatly enhance workplace well-being. For a deeper understanding of workplace safety, FinishingX offers comprehensive health and safety courses. These courses equip individuals with the essential skills and knowledge to create safer and healthier work environments, fostering a culture of safety in professional settings.
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