What is L26?
L26 is the HSE's Approved Code of Practice and guidance for the Health and Safety (Display Screen Equipment) Regulations 1992 (as amended). These regulations apply to workers who use display screen equipment (DSE) - typically computer screens, laptops, tablets, and similar devices - as a significant part of their normal work.
The regulations aim to prevent or reduce the risks from DSE work, primarily musculoskeletal problems, visual fatigue, and mental stress. With the massive increase in screen-based work, these regulations are more relevant than ever.
Who Needs This Document?
L26 applies to employers whose workers are "users" of display screen equipment:
- Office-based employers with staff using computers daily
- Call centres and customer service operations
- Design and creative agencies using screens extensively
- Financial services with screen-based trading or processing
- Any employer with workers who habitually use DSE for a significant part of their work
- Employers of homeworkers using DSE at home
- Self-employed individuals who use DSE as part of their work
A "user" is defined as someone who habitually uses DSE as a significant part of their normal work. Casual or occasional use would not normally qualify.
Key Topics Covered
Workstation Assessment
Employers must perform suitable and sufficient analysis of workstations to assess health and safety risks. This includes:
- Display screen (size, clarity, adjustment)
- Keyboard and input devices
- Work surface and furniture
- Chair and seating
- Space and layout
- Lighting and reflections
- Noise and heat
- Software and task design
Workstation Requirements
The regulations set minimum requirements for workstations, covering:
- Adjustable screens with clear, stable images
- Separate, tiltable keyboards
- Work surfaces with adequate space and low reflectance
- Adjustable chairs with good lumbar support
- Adequate lighting without glare
- Appropriate humidity and temperature
Breaks and Activity Changes
DSE work must be periodically interrupted by breaks or changes of activity to reduce the workload on the screen. Short, frequent breaks are more effective than occasional longer breaks.
Eye and Eyesight Tests
Employers must provide eye and eyesight tests to users on request:
- Before becoming a user
- At regular intervals thereafter
- When experiencing visual difficulties that may be caused by DSE work
If tests show special corrective appliances (glasses specifically for DSE work) are needed, the employer must provide them.
Training and Information
Users must receive adequate health and safety training on DSE use and be provided with information about:
- Risks from DSE work
- Steps taken to reduce risks
- Their entitlements under the regulations
Homeworking
The regulations apply equally to DSE used at home for work purposes. Employers must assess home workstations and ensure they meet requirements.
Legal Status
L26 is an Approved Code of Practice with special legal status. If you are prosecuted for breaching the DSE Regulations and it can be shown you did not follow the ACOP, a court will find you at fault unless you can demonstrate compliance by other means.
These regulations are commonly enforced, and failure to provide workstation assessments, eye tests, or appropriate equipment can result in enforcement action.
Why It Matters
DSE work is now ubiquitous, making proper compliance essential:
- Musculoskeletal disorders from poor workstation setup cause significant pain and absence
- Eye strain and headaches affect worker wellbeing and productivity
- Mental stress can result from poorly designed software or excessive workloads
- Upper limb disorders may develop from improper keyboard and mouse use
Proper implementation of the DSE Regulations:
- Reduces ill health and associated sickness absence
- Improves productivity through comfortable, well-designed workstations
- Demonstrates care for employee wellbeing
- Prevents costly claims for work-related conditions
- Addresses homeworking which has become widespread
For SMEs with office-based workers, DSE compliance is relatively straightforward but often overlooked. Simple workstation assessments and adjustments can prevent significant health problems. L26 provides practical guidance on meeting your legal duties in a proportionate way.
With the growth of hybrid and remote working, employers must also consider DSE risks for homeworkers, making this guidance more important than ever.