What is DSE and why does it matter?
DSE (Display Screen Equipment) are devices or equipment with screens used in the workplace such as laptops, tablets, mobile phones and PCs. It is important that all our staff have a workspace that prevents them from injury or strains and helps boost productivity and effectiveness. Uncomfortable working conditions can lead to further health and well-being risks. By making sure all staff are DSE assessed ensures their safety and helps us make sure all staff are well supported. As a line manager it is your role to ensure an assessment has been completed when a team member first starts working us at Safe Families and Home for Good, if any circumstances change (e.g. the team member is pregnant/experienced a back injury), and then yearly.
DSE user training
Before undertaking a DSE assessment we recommend all line managers to complete the online training which is completed through an online training platform called TES Develop. You should already be set up with a log in for this however if you are not it is worth searching 'TES Develop' into your outlook search bar which should bring up a previous email with your log in details.
- This training does not need to be renewed once it has been completed.
- If you can't find your TES Develop log in details let the People and Culture Team know
Please see below as to how to access the DSE Training online.
- Visit the website TES Develop and log in
- Search 'Display Screen Equipment' and then click - 'start studying'
How do I complete the assessment?
- Arrange with the team member a time to complete the DSE assessment with them, they will need to be seated at their desk in order for you to answer the questions. This meeting typically takes around 15 minutes.
- Prior to meeting send them the guidance around home working and assessment form in advance so they can come prepared with any thoughts or questions they may have.
- Meet with the team member and complete the DSE assessment This form provides you with all the questions you need to ask and you will need to put a 'Y' or a 'N' with any relevant notes if necessary in each box dependent on the answer to the questions.
- You will need to note down any adjustments or changes necessary and makes sure all follow actions are completed.
Please see below a helpful guide as to what we are looking for when completing a DSE assessment with a member of staff:
Uploading the Assessment
The checklist should be completed when staff members start at Safe Families and Home for Good and then will be renewed yearly. Once completed, it should be uploaded onto the staff database under document type 'DSE assessment'. Please put in an 'expiry date' one year after the assessment (unless you plan to review this sooner which could be the case if you have a staff member with a bad back)
- If you line manage a team member who is contracted to work from home a member of the People and Culture Team will initially complete a DSE assessment. Once this assessment needs renewing it is the responsibility of the line manager to complete this.
If any additional equipment is identified within the assessment please speak to the SLT lead.
FAQ
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How does DSE apply when we are a hot desking office?
- All staff must have completed a DSE assessment. It is important that staff are reminded to adjust their workstation when they are hot desking.
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When does the DSE assessment require a review?
- If major changes are made to the equipment, furniture, work environment or software.
- If the nature of work tasks changes considerably.
- It is thought that the controls in place may be causing other problems. E.g. Staff member is pregnant or has an injury.
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What if the staff member works from home?
- For staff who are designated home workers a DSE assessment will take place with the Office Lead for Home Working in the People and Culture Team. This will take place online.