What to expect from a virtual DSE (Display Screen Equipment) Assessment: What you need to know
In today's digital age, many of us find ourselves spending long hours in front of screens, whether for work or leisure. However, prolonged screen time can lead to various health issues, including eye strain, neck pain, and repetitive strain injuries. That is where Display Screen Equipment (DSE) Assessments come in. At PAM Physio Solutions and PAM Ergonomics, we understand the importance of adapting to the virtual landscape. Here, we will guide you through what to expect from a virtual DSE Assessment, ensuring you optimise your workspace for comfort and productivity.
HSE (Health and Safety Executive) Requirements:
It is a legal requirement that all workspaces comply to HSE Display Screen Equipment (DSE) requirements, under the screen equipment regulations 1992. Regulations cover any employees who use DSE for over one hour at a time, and require they have a DSE assessment by a suitable ergonomic specialist when employees are;
- New to a business
- Change workstations or working location
- Raise a related health concern.
Understanding Virtual DSE Assessments:
Virtual DSE Assessments offer the convenience of evaluating your workspace remotely, without the need for an in-person visit. This approach allows our trained DSE Assessors to assess your workstation setup and provide personalised recommendations tailored to your needs from the comfort of your current office or home-working set up.
Pre-Assessment Preparation:
Before your virtual DSE Assessment, it is essential to prepare your workstation as you would for an in-person evaluation. Ensure adequate lighting, a comfortable chair, and proper positioning of your monitor, keyboard, and mouse. Additionally, have any relevant documents or equipment ready to share with the assessor.
Some top tips for pre-assessment preparation are:
- Bring a tape measure. It might not always be required to be used, but it is useful to have readily available
- Ensure you attend the assessment at the agreed time. It is important that we make the most of the time we have planned in to really understand any improvements we can make to your workstation set up.
- Note down any questions you may have for us at the end. This will allow us to answer any that have not been covered as part of the assessment.
The Assessment Process:
During the virtual assessment, our trained ergonomic specialist will guide you through a series of questions and visual observations to assess your workspace setup. They will ask about your daily work routine, any discomfort you experience, and your existing equipment. They will deep dive into any specific problem areas and assess the environment you work in to create a thorough picture of your day-to-day experience.
Virtual Assessment:
Our virtual DSE Assessments utilise video conferencing platforms like Microsoft Teams to facilitate real-time communication between you and your assessor. This allows for a thorough evaluation of your workspace, as the assessor can see your setup and provide immediate feedback and recommendations.
Interactive Assessment:
You can expect the assessment to be interactive, with the assessor guiding you through adjustments to your workstation in real-time. They may suggest changes to your chair height, monitor positioning, or keyboard placement to optimise ergonomics and reduce strain.
So, what are the benefits of a virtual assessment?
- You will get a thorough understanding of the correct, recommended positions at your workstation, either at home or the office from a DSE Assessor.
- You will learn the importance of these positions and how they prevent exacerbating any pains or symptoms you are currently experiencing.
- We will advise you on any adjustments or modifications that can be made during the assessment, if possible, as well as recommend more suitable equipment for your workstation if necessary.
Personalised Recommendations:
Based on the assessment findings, the assessor will provide personalised recommendations to improve your workspace ergonomics. This may include adjusting your chair settings, using ergonomic accessories, or implementing software solutions to reduce eye strain or repetitive movements.
Your assessment will be written up as a detailed report, with bespoke workplace adjustments that would improve comfort, as well as recommendations for any products that could enhance your workstation set up.
Post-Assessment Support:
After the assessment, you will receive a detailed report outlining the recommendations discussed during the session. Additionally, our team is available to provide ongoing support and assistance with implementing the suggested changes to ensure your continued comfort and well-being and help with purchasing any recommended products.
Virtual DSE Assessments offer a convenient and effective way to optimise your workspace for improved comfort and productivity. By understanding what to expect from the assessment process, you can confidently take steps to create a healthier and more ergonomic work environment. If you are ready to enhance your workspace, schedule a virtual DSE Assessment with us today.