Meet minimum workplace standards

Safe use of IT equipment

You have a duty to ensure that you and your employees use computers and other IT equipment safely under the Health and Safety (Display Screen Equipment) Regulations 1992. This is to reduce the risk of repetitive strain injury (RSI), headaches and other aches and pains.

In particular you must:

• ensure workstations and workplace layout meet a range of minimum requirements in areas such as clarity of image, adjustable chairs and suitable lighting
• ensure staff receive a Display Screen Equipment risk assessment and that any arising problems are resolved
• give staff regular breaks away from display screens or allow them to switch to a different activity
• pay for employees' eye tests on request
• provide training to make sure staff can use their VDU (visual display unit) and workstation safely

For information on work equipment and workstations, see our guide on how to use your home as a workplace.

Subjects covered in this guide

• Introduction
• Ensure basic levels of comfort
• Put up suitable notices and signs
• Provide suitable first aid facilities
• Carry out a risk assessment of your workplace
• Fire protection
• Make sure equipment is appropriate
• Safe use of IT equipment
• Report incidents in the workplace
• Health and safety for people who work at home

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