TLY1 Working Safely with Display Screen Equipment

During a workplace safety training session, Lily was asked: What is the primary purpose of the Health and Safety (Display Screen Equipment) Regulations?

• To protect workers from health risks associated with DSE

• To increase productivity using DSE

• To promote the use of modern technology

• To reduce electricity consumption

Answer explanation

The primary purpose of the Health and Safety (Display Screen Equipment) Regulations is to protect workers from health risks associated with DSE, ensuring their safety and well-being while using such equipment.

Amelia and William are office workers. Who among them are considered 'DSE users' under the regulations?

• Amelia, who uses DSE only on weekends

• William, who uses DSE daily for continuous periods of an hour or more

• Amelia, who uses DSE infrequently

• William, who uses DSE for less than 30 minutes a day

Answer explanation

DSE users are defined as those who use Display Screen Equipment daily for continuous periods of an hour or more, as this level of usage can lead to health risks that regulations aim to address.

What must employers provide if Sophie requests it?

• A new workstation

• An eye test

• A personal laptop

• A smartphone

Answer explanation

Employers are required to provide an eye test if a worker requests it, especially if they use display screen equipment regularly. This is part of health and safety regulations to ensure employee well-being.

James is setting up his new home office and wants to ensure he avoids health risks associated with incorrect use of DSE. Which of the following is NOT a health risk he should be concerned about?

• Eye strain

• Fatigue

• Neck pain

• Hearing loss

Answer explanation

Hearing loss is not typically associated with incorrect use of Display Screen Equipment (DSE). In contrast, eye strain, fatigue, and neck pain are common issues resulting from poor ergonomics and prolonged screen use.

Amelia is a mobile worker. What should she do according to the DSE regulations?

• Ignore DSE regulations

• Carry out a basic risk assessment

• Work without breaks

• Use any available workstation

Answer explanation

According to DSE regulations, mobile workers should carry out a basic risk assessment to identify potential hazards and ensure a safe working environment, rather than ignoring regulations or working without breaks.

Neha works at a tech company. What is one of the actions her employer must take to reduce risks associated with DSE?

• Provide free meals

• Increase working hours

• Offer gym memberships

• Ensure workers take breaks from DSE work

Answer explanation

To reduce risks associated with DSE (Display Screen Equipment), employers must ensure workers take breaks from DSE work. This helps prevent strain and fatigue, promoting better health and productivity.

Isabella is a hot-desking worker. Which of the following is a requirement for her?

• She must have a fixed workstation

• She should carry out a basic risk assessment if she changes desks regularly

• She should not use DSE

• She must work from home

Answer explanation

Hot-desking workers should carry out a basic risk assessment when changing desks regularly to ensure their workspace is safe and ergonomic. This is crucial for maintaining health and safety standards.

Priya is a pregnant worker who uses DSE at her workplace. What type of guidance does HSE provide for her?

• Guidance on increasing DSE usage

• No specific guidance

• Guidance on using DSE safely

• Guidance on avoiding DSE

Answer explanation

HSE provides guidance on using DSE safely for pregnant workers, ensuring they can work comfortably and without risk. This guidance focuses on ergonomics and safe practices rather than avoiding DSE or increasing its usage.

Charlie recently set up a new home office but didn't pay much attention to the ergonomics of his workstation. What is a potential consequence of this oversight?

• Pain in necks, shoulders, and backs

• Improved concentration

• Increased productivity

• Better posture

Answer explanation

Poorly designed workstations can lead to discomfort and pain in necks, shoulders, and backs due to improper ergonomics. This is a common consequence, while the other options suggest positive outcomes that are unlikely.

William is setting up a new office space. What should he do to comply with the DSE regulations?

• Increase screen brightness

• Provide only laptops

• Do a DSE workstation assessment

• Ignore workstation assessments

Answer explanation

To comply with DSE regulations, employers must conduct a DSE workstation assessment. This assessment helps identify potential risks and ensures that workstations are set up ergonomically for employee safety.