Occupational Health

Securing Health Together

DSE Assessor Training

 Sitting Posture

Humans now spend 70% of their

waking hours sitting
Sitting flexes the spine (banana
shape) and stresses the structures
which support the spine
The cervical spine reverses its
position
Diaphragmatic function and breathing
is impaired
 Sitting Posture - Effects

Circulation impaired
Changes in the viscosity of
blood
Increase in muscle action to
sustain posture
Concentration impaired
 Health Risks Associated with DSE

Tendonitis
Tenosynovitis
Carpel Tunnel Syndrome
Back Pain
Visual Problems
Skin Problems
WRULDS
Stress
 Health Risks Associated with DSE

TUC estimate 200,000 people take time off

work each year as a result of WRULDs
This costs the UK economy approximately 3
billion, which is incurred by:
Paying for substitute workers
Providing additional training
Loss of productivity
Business disruption
 Legislative Background to DSE

HASWA 1974
EU Framework Directive
H & S (DSE) Regulations 1992
Management of H & S at Work
Regulations 1999
Local Legislative
Requirements?
 Indoor Environment

Space
Lighting
Reflection and Glare
Noise
Heat
Radiation
Humidity
 Standards

BS EN ISO 9241 1
BS EN ISO 9241 4
BS EN ISO 9241 - 6
BS EN ISO 9241 11
BS EN ISO 9241 12
BS EN ISO 9241 13
 Assessment Planning

Define Users
Training
User Assessment
Problems Reported
Workstation Analysis
Solutions
Remedial Actions