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 - The use of VDUs is covered by the Health and Safety (Display Screen Equipment) Regulations 1992. When working with VDUs it is important for homeworkers to adjust their work station to a comfortable position and take breaks from work. This will help prevent undue tiredness. Remembering to stretch and change position regularly can help to reduce tiredness and prevent pains in the hands, wrists, arms, neck, shoulders or back. VDUs need to be placed in a position where lighting will not cause reflections or glare on the screen. It is also important for homeworkers to view the screen comfortably. They may need different spectacles for this. Homeworkers should consult their GP or an optician if in doubt. A useful checklist for everyone using a VDU:
- Is the screen clear and readable, and without flicker?
- Is the screen free from glare and reflections?
- Are the 'brightness' and 'contrast' controls properly adjusted to prevent eyestrain?
- Is there suitable lighting so that the fine detail on the screen can be seen and read?
- Is the keyboard placed in the right position to allow the homeworker to work comfortably
- Is the screen and computer clean; is it free from dust and dirt?
- Can the chair be adjusted to the right height so that work can be done comfortably?
- Is the VDU placed at the right angle on the desk to allow work to be done comfortably, for example without having to make any awkward movements?
- Is there enough space under the desk to allow free movement?
- Is there enough space in general so that the homeworker can move freely between the work on the desk and the VDU?
- More info: www.open.gov.uk/hse/hsehome.htm The following government publications (priced and free) are available by mail order from HSE Books, PO Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 6FS Tel: 01787 881165, Fax: 017187 313995. Priced publications are also available from good bookstores.
- Display screen equipment work Health and Safety Display Screen Equipment Regulations 1992. Guidance on Regulations ISBN 0 7176 0410 1
- VDUs: An easy guide to the Regulations
HS(G)90 ISBN 0 7176 0735 6
- Working with VDUs
IND(G)36L (free)
[Source: HSE current at 7/96 and published on Internet 17/3/97]
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