Computer work - Health, Safety and Wellbeing - University of Warwick

Welcome, these pages have been provided to help you avoid or reduce health problems arising from computer use. They address the UK Display Screen Equipment (DSE) regulations, following the European Directive. Constant low-level effort, such as holding your arm out to use the mouse, can lead to overuse injuries, and if these are allowed to persist from one day to the next they can escalate quickly to become more severe and hard to get rid of. Fortunately these problems can generally be avoided by some simple measures and good working practices. So the two essentials are: 1. Act Today: don't wait until you have a problem 2. Do It Yourself: don't wait for someone else to fix it for you. Most of the changes can be made by simple adjustments to the way you work and use equipment without spending a lot of money.
	Setting Up A step by step guide to setting up your computer, chair and desk to suit you. Also included are sections with information on working with laptops, tablets and using smart phones
	Self Assessment The self assessment form can be found in this section. Go through this formal procedure to check everything is set up properly for you. The self assessment should be repeated whenever there is a significant change to your work set up, if you are experiencing any difficulties or if you are pregnant. Staff who share a work desk should make sure they adjust their set up to suit their needs before use each day but do not need to formally complete the self assessment form each time.
	Symptoms This section provides a simple roll over diagram to troubleshoot any pain or discomfort.
	Exercises Practice the simple posture exercises during work breaks to help relieve muscle tension. Information and links are also provided for neck exercises and back pain.
	Further Guidance Further information and guidance to help you understand why problems may develop and things you can do to help yourself. Details can also be found on selecting furniture and work equipment.
	Useful Links Links to where to purchase or replace any equipment and obtain an eye test.
Materials developed from and used by permission with Open Ergonomics Limited