Homeworking DSE assessment FORM
Name Line manager
Company Date of assessment
Type of equipment Desktop PC
 Laptop PC
 Tablet
 Other device
How long do you spend working at home?
Typically, what tasks are undertaken?
Do you take regular breaks or changes of activity in your work?
 
Notes Yes No N/A Action Needed
1 Computer Hardware        
1.1 Are the keyboard and mouse placed in the correct position to allow comfortable working? Try to create more room for the keyboard, hands and wrists. Users of thick, raised keyboards may need a wrist rest.
1.2 Are the keyboard markings clear and readable?
 		 Keyboards should be kept clean. If characters still can not be read, the keyboard may need modifying or replacing. Use a keyboard with a matt finish to reduce glare and/or reflection.
1.3 Are the screen characters clear and readable? Make sure the screen is clean and cleaning materials are available. Check that the text and background colours work well together.
1.4 Is the image stable; that is, free of flicker and jitter? Try using different screen colours to reduce flicker, e.g. a darker background and lighter text.
1.5 Is the computer screen at the correct height and distance to allow comfortable working? To avoid neck ache, always ensure your eyes are aligned with the top of the monitor.
1.6 Does the screen swivel and tilt? Swivel and tilt need not be built in. However, you may need to replace the screen if:
  • swivel/tilt mechanism is broken;
  • work is intensive;
  • and/or you have problems getting the screen to a comfortable position.
1.7 Is the screen free from glare and reflection? Use a mirror placed in front of the screen to check where reflections are coming from. You might need to move the screen or shield it from the source of the reflections. Screens that use dark characters on a light background are less prone to glare and reflections.
2 Mouse/Trackball   Yes No N/A Action Needed
2.1 Is the device positioned close to you?
 Most devices are best placed as close as possible; that is, right beside the keyboard.
  • prevent arm overreaching;
  • Try not to leave your hand on the device when it is not being used and keep a relaxed arm and straight wrist.
2.2 Is there support for your wrist and forearm?
 		 Support can be gained from, for example, the desk surface or arm of a chair. If not, a separate supporting device may help. You should be able to find a comfortable working position with the device. 
2.3 Does the device work smoothly at a speed that suits you?  See if cleaning is required (for example, mouse ball and rollers). Check the work surface is suitable. A mouse mat may be needed 
3 Furniture   Yes No N/A Action Needed
3.1 Is the work surface large enough for all the necessary equipment, papers and so on?
 		 Create more room by moving printers, reference materials etc. to another location.  
3.2 Can you comfortably reach all the equipment and papers you need to use? Bring frequently used items within easy reach. A document holder may be needed and positioned to minimise uncomfortable head and eye movements.  
3.3 Are surfaces free from glare and reflection?
 		 Consider mats or blotters to reduce reflections and glare.
3.4  Is your chair stable?  
3.5 Is your chair adjustable? The chair may need repairing or replacing if it is uncomfortable, or you cannot use the adjustment mechanisms.
3.6 Is the chair adjusted correctly? You should be able to carry out their work sitting comfortably. The arms of chairs can stop the user getting close enough to use the equipment comfortably.
Move any obstructions from under the desk.
3.7 Is the small of your back supported by the chair's backrest? You should have a straight back, supported by the chair, with relaxed shoulders.
3.8 Are your forearms horizontal and eyes at roughly the same height as the top of the screen? You should have a straight back, supported by the chair, with relaxed shoulders.
3.9 Are your feet flat on the floor without too much pressure from the seat on the backs of the legs? If not, a footrest may be needed.
4 Environment   Yes No N/A Action Needed
4.1 Is there enough room to change position and vary movement? Space is needed to move, stretch and fidget. Consider reorganising the desk layout and check for obstructions. Cables should be tidy and not a trip or snag hazard.
4.2 Is the lighting suitable; that is, not too bright or too dim to work comfortably? Having harsh or dim lighting can quickly tire your eyes and cause eyestrain. Adjust the lighting for eye comfort.
4.3 Does the air feel comfortable with adequate ventilation? DSE and other equipment may dry the air. Circulate fresh air if possible.
4.4 Are levels of heat comfortable? A hot room can cause stress and discomfort; try to switch off any equipment not in use.
4.5 Are routes to your workstation clear of obstructions and trip hazards? Remember to consider the potential of a fire or other emergency when you are working at home and what you can do to mitigate risk.
4.6 Do any of the leads or cables have cut or nicks in the outer cover? Obtain replacement items, do not undertake any repairs yourself.
4.7 Is there potential for water or condensation to drip onto the plug? Avoid damp areas where there is potential for condensation to occur within the plug or adjoining socket.
4.8 Are any exposed electrical items becoming excessively hot during use? Obtain replacement items, do not undertake any repairs yourself.
4.9 Are leads or cables trailing across the floor? Also check to ensure that leads do not get trapped under legs of tables and chairs.
4.10 Are cables tangled with other leads or twisted? Avoid coiling power cables up as it can cause a heating effect within the cable when power is on.
5 Communication   Yes No N/A Action Needed
5.1 Do you have a reliable method of exchanging information between home and office particularly in the event of an emergency? Communication can be by telephone, e-mail or other systems agreed with your Line Manager.
5.2 Is there a system for reporting and replacing faulty equipment and are you aware of the process? Check with your FM or IT Manager.
5.3 Are you aware of the need to report all work-related accidents to your Line Manager? If you are not sure of the process, ask your Line Manager for advice.
6 Final questions   Yes No N/A Action Needed
6.1 Have you been advised of your entitlement to eye and eyesight testing?  
6.2 Has this checklist covered all the problems you may have working with DSE? If not, detail any issues below.
Comments Recommended Actions
NOTE: assessments are not one-off occasions.
They must be reviewed whenever there is a change in circumstances or there is any reason for concern from a user or line manager.
 
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