What is this document?
INDG36 is the HSE's brief guide to working with display screen equipment (DSE). It explains what employers must do under the Health and Safety (Display Screen Equipment) Regulations 1992 to protect staff who regularly use computers, laptops, and other screen-based equipment.
The guidance covers employer responsibilities, how to assess workstations, and practical steps to prevent common problems like eye strain, back pain, and upper limb disorders.
Who needs to read this?
- Employers with staff who use computers or laptops as a significant part of their work
- Office managers responsible for workstation setup and equipment
- HR and health and safety managers overseeing DSE compliance
- Employees and safety representatives who want to understand their rights
- Anyone setting up home working arrangements where DSE is used
Key points covered
The HSE guidance addresses:
- Employer duties under the DSE Regulations 1992
- Who counts as a DSE user and when the regulations apply
- Workstation assessment requirements and how to conduct them
- Minimum requirements for workstations including screens, chairs, desks, and lighting
- Eye tests and corrective equipment for DSE users
- Breaks and changes of activity during prolonged screen use
- Training and information that must be provided to users
- Practical solutions for common DSE problems
How this applies to you
If your staff use computers, laptops, or tablets regularly as part of their job, you have legal duties to:
- Assess workstations to identify risks and take steps to reduce them
- Ensure workstations meet minimum requirements for screens, furniture, and environment
- Plan work so users can take breaks or changes of activity
- Provide eye tests on request and glasses if needed specifically for DSE work
- Provide information and training about risks and controls
The regulations apply whether staff work in the office, at home, or in a hybrid arrangement. Remote workers using DSE are entitled to the same protections.
Common issues to address include:
- Screen positioned too high, low, or at an angle
- Chair not properly adjusted for the user
- Keyboard and mouse positioned awkwardly
- Glare or reflections on the screen
- Insufficient space on the desk
- Poor lighting causing eye strain
Most DSE problems can be solved with simple, low-cost adjustments to equipment and working practices.
Related Safety Clarity content
- Workplace Safety Requirements - General workplace health and safety duties
- DSE Assessment Guide - How to conduct DSE workstation assessments
Source: This page summarises HSE guidance document INDG36. For the full official guidance, visit the HSE website.