Using Your Computer > Safe & Responsible Computer Use

Display screen equipment risk assessment checklist

By Lasa Information Systems Team

Using computers can pose serious health risks, all of them avoidable. The health and safety of computer users matters! You can use this checklist for each computer or workstation you regularly use and note down any point you feel unhappy about, or where you are not sure if things are ok. If you don't have time to write detailed responses, just indicate the areas you are concerned about. Your employer has to meet minimum standards in all these areas.

General

• Is lighting adequate?
• Is lighting adjustable to your comfort?
• Are glare and reflections minimal? Do they cause any discomfort?
• Do windows have blinds or curtains you can adjust if necessary?
• Is ventilation adequate?
• Are there any fumes from adjacent equipment or activities?
• Is ozone at low levels? (photocopiers and laser printers produce ozone, and many now state what standards they meet. If in doubt they should be located in a separate, well ventilated room).
• Does the workplace have a no-smoking policy?
• Does other people's smoke irritate you?
• Is the temperature comfortable (between 16°C and 20°C)?
• Is the level of humidity comfortable?
• Is there any intrusive noise (from the computer or anything else)?
• Do you have enough room to move around? (Requirement is around 6 feet by 6 feet floor space each)
• Are there adequate facilities for refreshments and rest areas?
• Are there any wires or tripping hazards on floors?
• Are electrical switches and sockets in good repair and not overloaded?
• Are there adequate fire prevention methods?

(All the above apply throughout the year, whatever the weather).

Personal

• Is the desk where you work at the computer the right height (and adjustable if necessary)?
• Is the desk top thin enough to get your legs underneath when you sit at the right height?
• Do you have enough leg room and a footrest if necessary?
• Is there space on the desk for all the equipment and papers you need for your work?
• Is the chair stable and fully adjustable for your comfort (height, backrest etc.)?
• Is the desk placed right in relation to windows, sightlines, lighting?
• Do you have individual lighting which you can control?
• Are there precautions to minimise static electricity?
• Is everything you require for your normal work easily accessible?

Computer

• Can the monitor be tilted in all directions?
• Is the screen at a suitable height?
• Is the screen clear and readable?
• Can you adjust brightness and contrast?
• Is the screen easily cleaned?
• Is the keyboard detachable and adjustable
• Are the keys easy to read and non-reflective?
• Is there enough space to rest your arms, and a wrist support if necessary?
• Is there enough space for the mouse, and can it be used at a comfortable angle?
• Is the software you use suitable for the task?
• Does the software display information in a suitable format and at a suitable speed?
• Does the software give you sensible error and help messages, and help you avoid the consequences of errors (e.g. warning you before you delete something)?
• Have you been given appropriate training in the use of the computer system?
• Is other equipment (e.g. a document holder) provided if appropriate, and is it suitable?

Workload

• Are you ever asked to overwork to an extent you consider harmful?
• Are your rest breaks adequate?
• Does the software you use minimise your workload (e.g. avoiding unnecessary keystrokes)?
• Do you know if the software monitors your performance automatically?
• Are your work priorities etc. under your control as far as possible?

Other points

• Have you been provided with health and safety training and information?
• Is there a system for recording and monitoring complaints or problems with the workplace?

More Information

For more information on the law and risks around safe computer use, see the knowledgebase article Computer Health and Safety.

The London Hazards Centre publishes 'VDU Work and the Hazards to Health' which provides in depth coverage of the issue.