Visual Display Units

To access the on-line VDU Workstation training and self-assessment please follow this link

Introduction

This guidance covers the main aspects of the Health and Safety (Display Screen Equipment) Regulations 1992.  The health problems that may arise from using VDUs are:

  • back pain and upper limb disorders (including pains in the arms, elbows, fingers, hands, neck and wrists
  • temporary eye strain (but not eye damage) and headaches
  • fatigue and stress.

This may result in

  • permanent injury to the employee
  • cost to the University in time off work
  • possible prosecution/compensation claims against the University.

What must I do?

All VDU users must undergo VDU self-assessment which includes on-line training as required by the above Regulations. Please follow this link to carry this out.

The University requires that this is repeated on a 2-yearly basis and reminders will be sent as appropriate.

After carrying out the procedure it is recommended that any issues are brought to the line manager’s attention so that efforts can be made to resolve them.  In addition, the results will be kept in a secure database and scrutinised by the Department of Occupational Health and Safety (DOHS).  Where there is evidence of problems which have not been resolved within the user’s work area please e-mail DOHS.  Where considered necessary a full workstation assessment will be carried out by DOHS.

Further Reading

How to keep comfortable at your computer

VDU poster

Procedure for Obtaining Eye Examinations

Policy and Procedures on VDUs

VDU Awareness Powerpoint

Working with VDUs (HSE leaflet)

Work with display screen equipment: Health and Safety (Display Screen Equipment) Regulations (HSE Guidance)