Tips to help alleviate pain caused by workstation equipment

If your employees use PCs, laptops, tablets, or other similar devices as a significant part of their working day — typically for continuous periods of an hour or more on a daily basis — those employees are classed as DSE Users under the Health and Safety (Display Screen Equipment) Regulations. The regulations don't apply to workers who use screens only occasionally or for short periods.

Businesses must ensure that workstations are assessed for all DSE users in order to reduce the risk of possible health problems. Importantly, this includes employees working from home or in hybrid arrangements — the assessment duty applies wherever the employee regularly works, not just at a fixed office location.

Risk factors associated with DSE use include awkward and static posture, repetitive tasks, and poor working technique, all of which can result in conditions such as RSI, neck and back pain, headaches and stress.

If you have an employee who is experiencing any related health problems, the following tips can help.

Back and Neck Pain

Often caused by bad posture. It is essential employees know how to adjust their workstation chair. A chair with a five-star base is a legal requirement — it gives stability and prevents the chair from tipping when leaning forward.

Forearms and hands should be horizontal with the elbows vertically under the shoulders to ensure good posture.

Feet should be placed flat on the floor with the pelvis slightly higher than the knees. If feet dangle, a footrest should be used. Taller employees may require the desk height to be raised.

The back should be supported by the chair's backrest, encouraging the natural 'S' shape of the spine.

If armrests prevent complete access to the workstation, lower them if adjustable or arrange to have them removed. Don't lower the seat height to move armrests under the desk.

If employees regularly use the phone or make long calls, ensure the phone is not cradled between the neck and shoulder. If necessary, use a headset.

Breaks and changes of activity should be introduced throughout the working day.

Headaches

The screen should be set with the top level with the eyes and the screen face vertical. If the screen is too low (which can also cause neck pain), use screen risers to increase the height.

The screen should be positioned approximately one arm's length away so that the eye muscles don't have to work too hard, and placed in a straight line directly in front of the user — positioning it at an angle can cause back and neck pain through twisting.

Concentrated use of PCs and laptops can cause temporary visual fatigue. DSE users are legally entitled to an eyesight test, paid for by the employer, on request.

Wrist Pain

The mouse should be positioned close to the body with the elbow vertically under the shoulder, without stretching. It's also worth trying to alternate the mouse between hands where possible to prevent muscle fatigue.

Keyboards should be used with the lightest possible touch. Using a keyboard with one or two fingers tends to result in striking the keys with force — the effect is similar to hitting the desk with a fingertip. The shockwave passes across the hand and through the wrist, and over time repeated impacts can lead to the onset of pain.

Be proactive and share these tips with your employees as part of your workstation

assessment arrangements — before the problems arise.

If you would like assistance assessing your employees' workstations please get in touch.

#DSEassessment #DSE #Workstationassessment #DSEadvice #Tipstohelppainwhenusingacomputer