Are You 110% Ahead of Health & Safety Compliance? Let’s Talk Display Screen Equipment Safety!

Are You 110% Ahead of Health & Safety Compliance? Let’s Talk Display Screen Equipment Safety!

Ah, the modern workplace. A land of endless emails, countless spreadsheets, and more virtual meetings than we’d ever imagined possible. If you’re reading this, you’re probably staring at a screen right now—maybe for hours on end. But have you ever stopped to think, Is my screen time safe?

DSE – Not Just Another Acronym!

DSE (Display Screen Equipment) sounds technical, but it’s really just a fancy way of saying your computer setup. And if you’re not mindful, poor DSE habits can lead to eye strain, back pain, headaches, and even more serious musculoskeletal issues. Yikes!

But don’t worry—we’ve got some fun (yes, really!) and easy tips to keep you ahead of the game when it comes to DSE safety. Because, let’s face it, no one wants to be that person with the weird chair posture who ends up walking like a question mark.

1. The 20-20-20 Rule: Give Your Eyes a Break!

Your eyes work hard, staring at screens all day, so give them some love! Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. Your retinas will thank you, and you might even get a chance to admire that office plant you keep forgetting to water. Better still go outside for a 5 minute fresh air break and give your lungs a break from the stuffy CO2 Office.

2. Posture Perfect – Sit Like a Boss!

Slouching might feel comfortable now, but trust us, your back is silently plotting revenge. Adjust your chair so your feet are flat on the floor, your back is supported, and your screen is at eye level. No more craning your neck like a confused flamingo.

3. Keyboard & Mouse Position – No T-Rex Arms!

Your arms should rest comfortably, with your elbows at a 90-degree angle. If you’re reaching too far or scrunching up like a T-Rex, it’s time for a keyboard and mouse adjustment!

4. Light It Up Right!

Lighting matters! Avoid screen glare by positioning your monitor away from direct sunlight and using soft, indirect lighting. Otherwise, you might spend your day squinting like a pirate—minus the cool eyepatch.

5. Get Up and Move – Wiggle Those Toes!

Sitting for too long isn’t just bad for your posture—it’s bad for your circulation, too. Take short breaks to stretch, stand, or do a little dance (safely, of course). Movement keeps you refreshed and ready to tackle the next email avalanche.

6. The Final Boss: Compliance & Risk Assessments!

Staying ahead of health and safety isn’t just about personal comfort—it’s about compliance, too. Regular DSE assessments help prevent long-term injuries, improve productivity, and keep workplaces in line with regulations. Win-win!

So, Are You 110% Ahead of the Game?

Now that you’re armed with the knowledge to work safely with DSE, the question is—are you fully compliant and reducing risks? If you’re unsure, don’t worry. A quick review of your setup (or an assessment from an expert) can make all the difference.

Stay safe, stay comfy, and keep working like a pro—without the back pain!

HSE: Information about health and safety at work