Who Needs DSE Training?

Many people assume Display Screen Equipment (DSE) training only applies to office workers who spend all day behind a computer. In reality, DSE regulations affect millions of employees across the UK, including those who work from home, use laptops, tablets or multiple display screens as part of their daily job.

As technology becomes increasingly integrated into the workplace, employers have a legal responsibility to consider how employees use display screen equipment and ensure the risks associated with prolonged screen use are properly managed.

What is Display Screen Equipment?

Display Screen Equipment (DSE) refers to devices that have an alphanumeric or graphic display screen.

Examples include:

• Desktop computers
• Laptops
• Tablets
• Touchscreen terminals
• Workstations
• Multi-monitor setups

It’s not just the screen itself that’s important. A DSE workstation also includes:

• The desk
• Chair
• Keyboard
• Mouse
• Footrest (where required)
• Lighting
• The surrounding working environment

Poor workstation design can contribute to discomfort, reduced productivity and long-term health problems.

Who Needs DSE Training?

Employees who use display screen equipment as a significant part of their normal work should receive suitable information and training.

Typical workplaces include:

• Offices
• Schools and colleges
• Local authorities
• Healthcare organisations
• Call centres
• Financial services
• Design studios
• Engineering offices
• Remote workers
• Hybrid workers

Even employees who regularly work from home should understand how to set up a safe workstation.

Why is DSE Training Important?

Poor workstation setup doesn’t usually cause immediate injury. Instead, problems often develop gradually over weeks, months or even years.

Common issues include:

• Neck pain
• Back pain
• Shoulder discomfort
• Wrist strain
• Eye fatigue
• Headaches
• Poor posture

Many of these problems can be prevented through simple adjustments and increased awareness.

Employer Responsibilities

The Display Screen Equipment Regulations place responsibilities on employers to help protect employees who use DSE.

Good practice includes:

• Carrying out DSE assessments.
• Providing suitable workstations.
• Offering information and training.
• Reviewing workstations when circumstances change.
• Encouraging regular breaks from screen work.

Training helps employees understand how to identify poor workstation setup before it leads to discomfort or injury.

What Should DSE Training Cover?

Effective Display Screen Equipment training typically explains:

• Correct seating position.
• Monitor height and distance.
• Keyboard and mouse positioning.
• Desk organisation.
• Lighting considerations.
• Avoiding glare.
• Taking regular screen breaks.
• Good posture throughout the working day.

Small adjustments often make a significant difference to comfort and wellbeing.

DSE Training for Home Workers

Remote and hybrid working have transformed the modern workplace.

Many employees now spend several days each week working from home, often using dining tables, sofas or temporary workspaces that weren’t designed for prolonged computer use.

Employers should ensure home workers receive the same level of guidance as office-based staff.

Video-based DSE training makes it easy for employees to understand how to create a safer workstation regardless of where they work.

How Often Should DSE Training Be Refreshed?

There is no fixed legal timescale for refresher training.

However, employers should review training whenever:

• New employees join.
• Equipment changes.
• Employees move workstations.
• Home working arrangements change.
• Risk assessments identify additional needs.

Many organisations also include DSE refresher training as part of their wider health and safety programme.

Flexible Training Options

Businesses today need training that fits around busy schedules.

USB-based DSE training allows organisations to deliver consistent in-house training whenever required, while online DSE training enables employees to complete the course from the office or home.

Both options provide a practical way to deliver training without the disruption and cost of arranging classroom sessions.

Final Thoughts

Display Screen Equipment training isn’t just about sitting comfortably—it’s about protecting employee health, improving productivity and helping employers meet their legal responsibilities.

Whether your staff work in an office, from home or across multiple locations, understanding how to use display screen equipment safely can help reduce discomfort, prevent musculoskeletal problems and create healthier working environments.

Providing suitable DSE training is a simple investment that can deliver long-term benefits for both employees and employers.