Whether you’re an employer or an employee, the question remains: who needs a DSE (display screen equipment) assessment?

With more people working from home, hot-desking, or working remotely, it can be hard to know what your responsibilities are – or what you’re entitled to – when it comes to workstation setup. The good news is that the rules are clearer than you might think.

In short, anyone working in a desk based role should be provided with a DSE assessment.

DSE assessments are designed to protect workers from the health risks associated with prolonged screen use and desk work. This doesn’t just apply to desktop computers, it also includes laptops, tablets and smartphones.

It is the employer’s legal responsibility to ensure their workers are protected from these risks.

But don’t just take our word for it:

“If workers use display screen equipment daily, as part of their normal work, continuously for an hour or more, employers must do a workstation assessment.” Health and Safety Executive, 2025

When is a DSE Assessment Required?

According to the Health and Safety Executive, an assessment must be carried out when:

• A new workstation is set up
• A new employee starts work
• A change is made to an existing workstation or how it is used
• An employee reports pain or discomfort

DSE assessments should not be treated as a one-off task. They must be reviewed and updated whenever changes occur that could affect an employee’s comfort or health.

Who Is Covered by This?

DSE regulations apply to more than just traditional office workers. They also cover:

• Home workers and remote employees
• Mobile workers who regularly use laptops or tablets
• Hot-desking employees who share workstations

Wherever work takes place, if DSE is used regularly as part of the job, an assessment is likely required.

Why Are DSE Assessments Important?

Poor workstation setup can lead to a range of health issues, including:

• Back, neck and shoulder pain
• Eye strain and headaches
• Fatigue and reduced concentration
• Repetitive strain injuries (RSI)

A proper workstation assessment helps identify risks early and ensures the correct adjustments, equipment, and guidance are provided. For employers, this not only supports legal compliance but also improves employee wellbeing, reduces sickness absence, and boosts productivity.

Need Help With DSE Assessments?

If you’re unsure whether your employees need a DSE assessment – or you want to ensure your business is fully compliant – we can help.

To take the first steps towards a healthier workspace, get in touch to book a DSE assessment. Or you can give us a call on 01422 652257, email us at info@posturechairs.co.uk or fill out the form below for more details.