Working with visual display units

Display Screen Equipment (DSE) – Useful Information

This page provides answers to commonly asked questions about monitors and other Display Screen Equipment (DSE). Are there any restrictions on the amount of time I can spend at a DSE? Can I take breaks?

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There is no legal limit to the amount of time you may spend in front of DSE but you need to break up prolonged periods of DSE work. Short and frequent breaks are better than longer but less frequent ones, eg 5 or 10 minutes every hour is more beneficial than 20 minutes every 2 hours. Ideally you should have some choice about when to take your breaks. Most jobs provide natural opportunities to pause from screen work to do other tasks related to your job (eg filing or photocopying). If there are no such breaks to your routine, your employer should plan for you to have designated rest breaks. Combining the breaks or change of activity with low grade physical exercise (ie to get up from your workstation and move around, or at least, stretch and change posture) will also help.

Is prolonged exposure to DSE work detrimental to my eyes? What can I do to reduce the risk of damage?Despite extensive research, no evidence has been found that DSE work causes disease or any permanent damage to eyes. However long spells of DSE work can lead to tired eyes, discomfort, temporary shortsightedness and headaches. DSE work is visually demanding, so it can make you aware of eyesight problems that you may have not noticed before. Ensuring your screen is well positioned (at eye level is preferable), properly adjusted (for brightness and contrast), and that lighting conditions are suitable can help reduce strain to your eyes. Employers have to assess DSE workstations and correct any defects. You can also ask your employer for an eye test, which could help correct any defects in your vision.
How do the regulations apply to work with laptops or other portable DSE?The regulations apply equally to Portable DSE such as laptops and handheld devices if they are used for prolonged periods as part of your daily working activities. Those who regularly use portable DSE should be trained in how to minimise risks, for example by sitting comfortably, angling the screen so that it is easy to read, and taking frequent breaks. Wherever possible, portable DSE should be placed on a firm surface at a comfortable height and, if used in the office, the use of a docking station can also reduce risk.

Can I ask my employer to arrange an eye test? And does my employer have to pay for DSE glasses?

If you are an employee who regularly uses DSE for the majority of your normal daily work you are entitled to ask your employer to provide an eye test. This is a full eye and eyesight test by an optometrist (or a doctor). Your employer should arrange for your test and should tell you how to apply. Your employer will only have to pay for glasses if the test shows that you required special glasses prescribed for the distance the screen is viewed at. If your ordinary prescription is suitable for your DSE work the employer does not have to pay for your glasses.Do the DSE regulations apply to children and students? No. The regulations only apply in the employer/employee relationship. However, employers have more general duties under other legislation such as the Health and Safety at Work Act etc 1974 which require work activities to be undertaken in a way that does not create risks to others (such as children or the public).


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