VDU Assessments Ergonomics
Ergonomics is centred around the design and planning of work tasks in order to improve human capabilities, comfort and performance.
VDU Risk Assessments are a legal requirement under the “2007 General Application Regulations”. The law states that the Employer is required to undertake Visual Display Unit (VDU) (DSE) Assessments on all computer workstations where an employee will spend longer than 1 hour per day. Our experienced DSE/VDU Ergonomic Assessor will assess all your workstations and work environment and identify potential hazards and controls necessary to reduce your level of risk. The assessment will look at the workstation, the screen, the chair, position of the desk in relation to the windows, the lighting in the work area , we will discreetly identify if the employee is/is not experiencing any pain or discomfort while using the equipment.
Video Display Units (VDU) are currently used in all workplaces. These are proven to be contributing factor to back injury, eye strain and repetitive strain injury.
The assessment includes:
- Workstation Design– monitor, keyboard and mouse (including correct techniques of use)
- Workplace Layout– desktop and positioning
- Lighting Levels– in the work area
- Temperature in your workplace
- Work Routine– rest and work periods
- Correct sitting Posture
- Written report
Workplace Ergonomic Assessments aim to:
- Reduce the likelihood of accidents
- Decrease worker compensation & healthcare costs
- Increase employee productivity
- Promote safer & healthier employees and workplace
- Increase staff morale
Part 2, Chapter 5 (VDU Assessments) of the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (General Application) Regulations 2007 set down minimum standards and requirements regarding VDU workstations.
In particular, the General Application Regulations 2007 require employers to:
- ensure that the general use of the equipment is not a source of risk for the employee,
- conduct a VDU Assessment, taking account of possible risks to:
- eyesight
- physical problems, and
- problems of mental stress
- Plan such works to include periodic breaks or changes in activity
- provide information to the employer’s employees
- provide training to employees in the use of workstations
- Conduct further VDU Assessments where:
- the employee transfers to a new workstation, or
- where new equipment or technologies are introduced
- Make eye tests available
HSA guidance states that each employer must carry out a VDU Assessment of individual workstations and this must be done by a competent person with the necessary skills, training and experience.
Please reach out to us for more information
