Display screen equipment risk assessment checklist

By Lasa Information Systems Team

• 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? 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?

• 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?

• 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?

• 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?

• 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?

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 2.0 UK: England & Wales License.

Provided to Infoxchange and reviewed under agreement with LASA, April 2011