DSE Workstation Checklist (UK)

A DSE workstation checklist is the practical tool a screen user fills in to check their own desk is set up safely. It is the usual way employers meet the display screen equipment duty, especially for office and home workers. Here is what the checklist covers.

Who should complete one

Anyone who is a DSE user, meaning they use a screen daily for continuous periods of an hour or more. That is most office staff and many hybrid and home workers. The user completes the checklist themselves, and anything they flag is followed up.

What the checklist covers

1. Screen. At eye level, arm's length away, free of glare, text large enough to read easily.
2. Keyboard and mouse. Separate, within easy reach, wrists straight and supported.
3. Chair. Adjustable in height and back, feet flat on the floor or a footrest, lower back supported.
4. Desk. Enough space, documents positioned to avoid awkward turning, no clutter underneath.
5. Environment. Suitable lighting, comfortable temperature, no trailing leads.
6. Breaks. Short, frequent changes of activity away from the screen.

Eye tests

DSE users are entitled to an eye and eyesight test on request, and the employer pays for basic corrective appliances needed specifically for screen work.

Homeworkers

The checklist is the practical way to cover home workstations, which ties into our working from home guide. The wider picture is in our DSE assessment guide.

Record it

Keep the completed checklists and act on anything flagged. An editable DSE assessment and checklist is included in membership.