This policy describes how PCI Pal ensures the safe use and application of display screen equipment within the organisation.
The Health and Safety (Display Screen Equipment) Regulations apply to workers who use DSE daily, for an hour or more at a time. As this applies to all PCI Pal staff they are all classified as 'DSE users’, regardless of whether they are:
PCI Pal will:
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do a DSE workstation assessment (note that during the Coronavirus pandemic this should be carried out by each staff member)
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reduce risks, including making sure workers take breaks from DSE work or do something different
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provide an eye test if a worker asks for one
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provide training and information for workers
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where notified of any issues related to DSE, take necessary steps to investigate and put in place corrective measures where appropriate
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advise the employee of the action taken
Incorrect use of DSE or poorly designed workstations or work environments can lead to pain in necks, shoulders, backs, arms, wrists and hands as well as fatigue and eye strain. The causes may not always be obvious.
Where a problem arises in the use of display screen equipment the employee must;
• inform their line manager immediately
• we recommend that in the case of a related health or medical condition the employee seeks advice from their GP
Information
The company will give sufficient information as is necessary to ensure the health and safety of workers who use display screen equipment. This provision will also apply to those persons who are not in direct employment (e.g. agency staff and contractors).
Eye and Eyesight Tests
Users will be entitled to undertake an eye or eyesight test at regular intervals. All such tests must be arranged through the company. Where an employee experiences visual difficulties, and has good reason to believe that these may be caused by work with a display screen, the company will offer the opportunity for an eye or eyesight test.
All agreed costs of an eye or eyesight test will be met by the company, provided that the testing has been arranged through the company. Where an employee obtains a test independently and without the knowledge of the company then the company shall not be responsible for the costs incurred.
Where it is found that glasses are necessary, specifically for the use of display screen equipment, the company will contribute an agreed sum towards the purchase. This will enable the employee to obtain a standard frame and lenses, or to use the contribution towards a more expensive model of their choosing. Evidence of the intended purchase must be produced.
Where there is a change in the employee's visual defect, and this results in a change to the prescription requirements, the company will bear the cost of replacement.
The employee will be personally responsible for the safe keeping of glasses. These are supplied in accordance with a statutory requirement in the interest of health and safety. Employees are expected to show the same degree of care for glasses as for any other item of company property. Anybody failing to observe this requirement may be subject to disciplinary procedures.
For further information, and to apply for this benefit please email accounts@pcipal.com
Rest Breaks
The purpose of a break from display screen equipment is to prevent the onset of fatigue. Users of display screens are encouraged, and will be expected to take opportunities to take breaks.
There is no legal guidance about how long and how often breaks should be for DSE work. It depends on the kind of work you are doing. Take short breaks often, rather than longer ones less often. For example 5 to 10 minutes every hour is better than 20 minutes every 2 hours. Ideally, users should be able to choose when to take breaks.
Radiation and Pregnancy
Employees using display screens are not at risk from radiation. Scientific research has concluded that such concerns are unjustified. No adverse ill effects have been found to arise from display screen equipment. Thus there is no reason for a person who is pregnant, or is seeking to become pregnant, to avoid working with such equipment.
Self-Assessment of the Workstation
Users of display screen equipment will be invited to complete a checklist to assist the company in providing a comfortable and safe working environment.
Training
Employees who use display screen equipment will be given training and instruction in all areas necessary to enable them to work without risk to health. This will cover:
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adjusting chairs and other furniture
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adjusting screens and lighting to avoid reflections and glare
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breaks and changes of activity
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Those persons not in direct employment (e.g. agency staff and contractors) will also be given sufficient training and instruction as is necessary to enable them to work without risk to health.
Managers who are responsible for users of display screen equipment will be given appropriate training.
