The other IT headache

Computers are commonplace in most workplaces and are often used for extended periods where they are needed. The Regulations, which cover the use of this equipment, are the Health and Safety (Display Screen Equipment) Regulations 1992. These Regulations were amended in 2002. They place duties on employers regarding the eye care of display screen equipment users.

Much discussion has taken place over the health effects DSE can have on users, with nothing being 100% proven. However, employers have a duty of care towards the health of their employees. In the UK, some DSE users can be in front of a screen for a phenomenal 35 hours a week. Considering the average working week is between 37 and 39 hours that equates to the worker being sat down at the workstation for the vast majority of their working time, with many users not being fully aware of the correct way to set up their workstation or the correct posture to adopt.

Visual fatigue affects more than 90% of DSE users, with sore, itchy eyes and occasional blurred vision being amongst the most typical symptoms being described.

Simple steps can be introduced to ensure the safety and health of employees, such as: training employees on the correct set-up of the workstation and correct posture to adopt, and training and information on how to adjust equipment such as seating and the visual display screen; ensuring the provided lighting is adequate for its location and purpose - poor lighting can have a negative effect on the user, causing them to strain their eyes, and too much light can also cause problems. There is also a requirement to ensure that the screen is not affected by glare from light sources; encouraging regular breaks away from the screen. This does not necessarily refer to a 'coffee break', but suggests a routine break away from the screen doing something else such as faxing, photocopying and other duties; and humidity levels in the workplace must be controlled to an appropriate level to prevent the occurrence of dry or itchy eyes and other irritant problems.

The Regulations place a requirement on employers to provide eyesight tests for all DSE users, to assess the health and function of the eyes. If necessary, advice on the provision of corrective lenses and suitable frames is given, and on other problems for which the employee would normally be referred to a specialist.

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