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The number of employees who use display screen equipment (DSE) in the UK is increasing every
year, and over the past ten years or so the use of portable computers has become more widespread in all businesses.
A considerable body of evidence indicates that using display screen equipment of any kind, whether desktop computers or portable computers, can cause musculoskeletal problems, visual discomfort, stress and fatigue. A major causal factor appears to be that display screen work encourages fixed and sometimes awkward postures for long periods of time, but many of the risks associated with using DSE can be avoided by applying simple controls, such as sitting in the right position and organising your desk correctly.

A correctly adjusted chair will help reduce strain on your back by ensuring your lower back is properly supported. The chair height should be adjusted so that you can use the keyboard whilst keeping your wrists and forearms straight and level with the floor.  Your elbows should be by the side of your body so that the arm forms an L-shape at the elbow joint. Your feet should be flat on the floor. If they’re not, ask if you can have a footrest, which lets you rest your feet at a level that’s comfortable. Don't cross your legs, as this can cause additional posture related problems.
Make sure your chair is easily adjustable so that you can change the seat height, back position and tilt to suit you. If your chair will not adjust properly, report it to our friendly Facilities Dept.

Your display screen/monitor should be directly in front of you approximately an arm's length away, with the top of the screen roughly at eye level. Portable users may need to use a docking station (stand with separate keyboard and mouse) in order to achieve this. If the screen is too high or too low, you may cause unnecessary strain and discomfort to your neck.
The keyboard should be positioned in front of you when typing, approximately 4 to 6 inches from the edge of the desk to leave space to rest your wrists. Your wrists should be straight when using a keyboard, and some users like to use a wrist rest to keep their wrists at the same level as the keys.
The mouse should be kept close to you to prevent stretching; using a mouse mat with a wrist pad can help keep your wrist straight.

Position frequently used items, such as telephones, staplers and documents within easy reach to avoid repeatedly stretching or twisting for them. If your job requires a lot of telephone use, consider replacing the handset with a headset, as repeatedly cradling the 'phone between your ear and shoulder can strain the muscles in your neck.

Where possible, during prolonged DSE use, take short breaks to prevent fatigue or eye strain. It's great when someone offers to make you a coffee, but getting up to make your own will enable you to stretch your legs and rest your eyes for a minute or two. Where your job permits, a change of activity, such as photocopying or filing, can provide a suitable break away from DSE use also.

The following may help users:

■ Forearms should be approximately horizontal and the user’s eyes should be the
same height as the top of the screen.
■ Make sure there is enough work space to accommodate all documents or
other equipment.
■ Arrange the desk and screen to avoid glare, or bright reflections. This is often
easiest if the screen is not directly facing windows or bright lights.
■ Adjust curtains or blinds to prevent intrusive light.
■ Make sure there is space under the desk to move legs.
■ Avoid excess pressure from the edge of seats on the backs of legs and knees.
A footrest may be helpful, particularly for smaller users.
■ A space in front of the keyboard can help you rest your hands and wrists when
not keying.
■ Try to keep wrists straight when keying.
■ Position the mouse within easy reach, so it can be used with a straight wrist.
■ Sit upright and close to the desk to reduce working with the mouse arm stretched.
■ Make sure the screen surface is clean.
■ Breaking up long spells of DSE work helps prevent fatigue.

Hopefully this information will help all DSE users to think about their work areas and activities and enable them to use their computers, whether desktop or portable, safely and without risk from musculoskeletal problems, visual discomfort or fatigue.  Over the coming weeks, starting in July, individualised VDU/DSE assessments will be completed on CT Skills employees to ensure they are not at significant risk.