DISPLAY SCREEN EQUIPMENT (DSE)

SELF-ASSESSMENT FORM

The purpose of this form is to allow a Display Screen Equipment (DSE) user to carry out a self-assessment of their
computer workstation. The University provides on-line DSE training and information specifically for DSE users to
support them in completing this self-assessment form.

The form describes the various elements of the DSE assessment; consider each element as it applies to your
computer workstation. Answer each of the questions posed and include any comments you may have regarding
your DSE workstation.

DSE User Name: Date:

Department: Location (bld/room):

DSE User comments

Please add comments in support of any negative responses to the assessment questions

Equipment Yes / Comments

No
1) Computing Chair
a. Is the chair comfortable? Can you adjust your chair to a
suitable height and adjust the backrest for appropriate
support (ref diagram 1)
b. Can you place your feet on the ground whilst seated (foot
rest may be used for support)
c. Can you position the chair close enough to the desk area
(consider removing armrests if necessary)

2) Computer Screen
a. Can you adjust the height of the screen such that the top of
the screen is at eye level (screen platform may be
required)
b. Is the screen free from glare and is the image stable
c. Can you adjust the brightness and contrast on the
computer screen

3) Keyboard
a. Can you achieve a comfortable keying position (ref
diagram 2) with the keyboard positioned in front of the
computer screen

4) The Mouse / Tracker Ball

a. Is the mouse a suitable size and shape for your hand
b. Is the mouse correctly positioned for ease of use (ref
diagram 3)

5) Other Equipment
a. Is your desk suitable for the purpose
b. Do you have sufficient space on your desk to position
your workstation equipment within easy reach

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August 2017
 Equipment Yes / Comments
No
6) Working Environment
a. Are the lighting levels sufficient at the workstation
b. Is temperature and humidity controlled at a comfortable
level
c. Is background noise controlled at a suitable level to allow
for concentration
d. Is the area around the workstation sufficiently clear to
allow easy access and is it free from trailing leads and
other such trip hazards

7) Working Practices
e. Are you able to take short breaks away from computing
tasks and or adjust your posture to reduce build-up of
fatigue

8) DSE Information / Training

a. Have you completed the DSE training presentation (sent
on same email as this DSE assessment)
b. Have you read the information on your entitlement to eye
care as a DSE user – Slide 15 on presentation (information
is available on the Health and Safety Webpage or from
your Faculty H&S Advisor)

Please pass this completed assessment form to your DSE assessor or Health & Safety Adviser

This section is to be completed by a DSE Assessor and/or Health and Safety Advisor
Comments / Actions: Describe any actions that need to be taken following this initial assessment

Name:

Signature: Date

Assessment record to be held on file until subsequent review

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August 2017
 DISPLAY SCREEN EQUIPMENT (DSE)
SELF-ASSESSMENT FORM

Diagram 1 – Workstation set up

Height of computer chair adjusted to achieve correct

seating posture at the computer workstation.

Back rest positioned to provide support to the lower spine.

Angle of forearm with upper arm should be near 90o with

wrist just above the desktop to provide the correct keying
position.

If users feet cannot comfortably reach the floor a footrest

may be required to provide support to relieve pressure on
the thighs.

Computer software settings default to right hand mouse

can be changed for left hand use.
Diagram 2 – Use of Keyboard

Adopt the correct keying position at the workstation

Hands in a neutral position with wrists level with the

keyboard ~ allows for free movement

Diagram 3 – Use of Mouse

Correct positioning of the mouse to avoid stretching.

Wrist should be kept in a neutral position whilst using the

mouse.

Arm should be kept close to the body with movement

coming from the shoulder.

Maintain a gap between the wrist and the desktop and use
a mouse mat.

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August 2017