DSE Assessment Tool

Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust

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How the tool works

1. Your Details

Personal & health info

2. Questionnaire

Complete 48 quick questions

3. Results

Instant results and feedback

4. Action Plan

Download & share with your manager

Step 1 of 4 Health & Wellbeing

Health & Wellbeing

Optional: Tell us about your needs so we can tailor recommendations.

1. Do you wear glasses or contact lenses for computer work?

No Yes

2. Have you experienced pain/discomfort in the last 12 months?

No Yes - Back/Neck Yes - Arms/Hands

3. Are you currently pregnant or recently gave birth?

No Yes

4. Do you have any diagnosed health conditions that may affect your workstation use? Select all that apply (optional)

Neck pain (cervical strain) Tension neck syndrome Shoulder impingement syndrome Frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis) Rotator cuff injuries Upper trapezius muscle strain Thoracic outlet syndrome Pinched nerve in the neck (cervical radiculopathy) Forward head posture or related discomfort Jaw pain or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction

Lower back pain (lumbar strain) Lumbar disc herniation or bulging discs Sciatica Degenerative disc disease Spinal stenosis Facet joint dysfunction Sacroiliac joint pain Coccyx/Sacrum pain Spondylolisthesis Piriformis syndrome

Repetitive strain injury (RSI) Tendonitis Muscle stiffness from prolonged sitting or poor posture Poor circulation due to immobility Carpal tunnel syndrome Tenosynovitis (e.g. De Quervains tenosynovitis) Tennis elbow or golfers elbow (epicondylitis) Ulnar nerve entrapment or cubital tunnel syndrome Arthritis or joint stiffness Hand tremors or dexterity issues

Computer vision syndrome (eye strain or dry eyes) Visual impairment requiring screen adjustments (e.g., myopia, astigmatism)

Sensitivity to bright or flickering lights (photophobia) Sensitivity to noise or auditory overload Discomfort from screen brightness or visual stimuli Migraines or chronic headaches Tension headaches related to workstation use Autism-related sensory or environmental needs ADHD-related focus or environmental needs Sensory processing disorder or tactile sensitivities Dyslexia or visual processing difficulties Photosensitive epilepsy or seizure disorders Cognitive fatigue or brain fog Vertigo or Dizziness Post-Concussion Syndrome

Other conditions (please describe)

DSE Assessment

Step 2 of 4 Approx. 24 min remaining Workstation Assessment

Workstation Setup

Ensuring your chair and desk are adjusted correctly.

Keyboard shortcuts: Y/N to answer, ←/→ to navigate

Q1. Do all the functions work on the chair?

Check if height, tilt, backrest, armrests, and swivel work properly.

Yes No

Tip:

If the chair does not function correctly, review repair options or replace.

Describe the issue:

Q2. Is your chair on 5 casters (wheels)?

Note: These caster types apply to new chairs only. Older chairs do not need replacing unless there is a specific issue.

Draughtsman chairs: Should have gliders.
Vinyl floors: Use restraint (braking) castors.
Carpeted floors: Use standard castors.

Safety Tip: If your chair has castors on a vinyl floor, hold the chair when sitting down or standing up, as it may move easily.

Yes No

Tip:

The chair may not be suitable for use, contact the Health & Safety team for advice on a suitable chair.

Describe the issue:

Q3. Is the chair stable?

i.e. the backrest should not be loose or rocking.

Safety Tip: Hold onto the seat of the chair as you sit down to prevent the chair from rolling away.

Yes No

Tip:

A faulty chair can lead to posture issues. Report for repair.

Describe the issue:

Q4. Can the seat height be raised so that when the forearms are parallel with the desk surface they are about a centimetre or two above the desk?

The chair must be able to be adjusted to a suitable height for the desk

Safety Tip: If the chair height lowers throughout the day, the gas cylinder is no longer working adequately. Please discard the chair and source a new one.

Yes No

Tip:

Not having the chair at the correct height can result in shoulder and neck pain

Describe the issue:

Q5. Are your feet flat on the floor, with your hips slightly higher than your knees?

Note: Ensure your feet rest flat on the floor without pressure behind the knees. Your hips should be slightly higher than your knees to support good posture.

Safety Tip: A footrest may be needed to achieve this position comfortably.

Yes No

Tip:

Not having the chair at the correct height can result in shoulder and neck pain

Describe the issue:

Q6. Can the backrest be adjusted to properly support your lower back (lumbar spine)?

The part of the backrest that sticks out the most — the lumbar support — should sit comfortably in the natural curve of your lower back.

Target Position:

Roughly between your hips and lower ribs.

Unsure how to adjust? Select "No" below and we will give you a link to watch a quick video guide.

Yes No

Tip:

You should have good lumbar support to prevent back pain

Describe the issue:

Q7. Can the tilt be adjusted so that the spine is maintained in a natural ‘S’ shape?

Note: If any of the functions of the chair do not work or the backrest is unstable/wobbly report it as defective to your manager.

Yes No

Tip:

The height of the chair & desk need to be adjusted to ensure good posture. Follow this video to see how to setup the chair correctly.

Describe the issue:

Q8. After adjustments, is your lower back (lumbar) supported?

Note: The backrest should be in contact with your back and providing support

Target Position:

Your lumbar can be supported by a lumbar support cushion if fitted to your chair.

Yes No

Tip:

If the backrest doesn't fit, you may need a lumbar cushion.

Describe the issue:

Q9. Do chair arms allow you to sit close enough to the desk?

The chair arms should not hit the desk edge or prevent you from being able to sit under the desk.

Health Warning: Overreaching can result in long term pain in your back, neck and shoulders.

Safety Tip: If your chair has folding arms fold them during normal use to allow to sit close to the desk.

Yes No

Tip:

Lower the arms or request removal if they obstruct you.

Describe the issue:

Q10. Is the desk surface large enough for your equipment?

You should have sufficient desk space or surface area to carry out computer work and other routine activities.

Desk Size:

Your desk should be a minimum of 800mm deep the width is determined by use as below.

Short Duration Tasks: 1200mm width
DSE User: 1400mm width Minimum
DSE User: 1600mm width preferred

Yes No

Tip:

Where posible clear unnecessary equipment or items.

Describe the issue:

Q11. Does the desk depth allow correct monitor distance?

Monitor should be roughly an arm's length away.

Yes No

Tip:

If too shallow, consider a keyboard tray or monitor arm.

Describe the issue:

Q12. Is the desk wide/deep enough for your legs?

You legs should not obstructed or rubbing on the underside of the desk.

Yes No

Tip:

Remove boxes from under your desk. If too low your desk legs may be able to be adjusted to raise it.

Describe the issue:

Q13. Is equipment organised to avoid twisting?

Frequently used items should be within easy reach.

Health Warning: Overreaching can result in long term pain in your back, neck and shoulders.

Yes No

Tip:

Move phones or documents closer to avoid overreaching.

Describe the issue:

Q14. Is the keyboard positioned correctly?

Allow a small space in front of the keyboard for hands/wrists.

Safety Tip: If you have pain in your wrists, an ergonomic keyboard or gel wrist support may help.

Yes No

Tip:

Keep 10cm to 15cm space in front of the keyboard.

Describe the issue:

Q15. Can you lay the keyboard flat on the desk?

Avoid using the tilt legs to keep your wrists straight.

Health Warning: Using a keyboard with a high tilt can cause nerve compression and result in carpal tunnel syndrome.

Yes No

Tip:

Fold legs down to prevent wrist strain.

Describe the issue:

Q16. Are the characters on the keys easily readable?

The keys should not be faded or shiny.

Yes No

Tip:

Request a replacement if keys are worn.

Describe the issue:

Q17. Do you use good keyboard technique?

Your hands should easily move between buttons with your wrists straight and soft touch on the keys.

Need a better technique? Select "No" below and we will give you a link to some online learning and support material in your action plan.

Yes No

Tip:

Avoid resting wrists while typing.

Describe the issue:

Q18. Does the mouse work correctly?

It should have smooth movement and reliable clicking.

Yes No

Tip:

Common issues may be fixed if you clean the sensor or wipe away any debris stuck to the underside.

Describe the issue:

Q19. Is the mouse positioned close to you?

Adjust your position to keep your elbow close to your body

Health Warning: Overreaching can result in long term pain in your back, neck and shoulders.

Yes No

Tip:

Use a compact keyboard to bring mouse closer.

Describe the issue:

Q20. Is the mouse suitable for you?

Consider size and shape for your hand.

Safety Tip: If you have pain in your hand and wrists an Ergonomic Mouse may be better for you. Select No and will we add some options to your action plan.

Yes No

Tip:

Request an ergonomic mouse if experiencing pain.

Describe the issue:

Q21. Are you aware how to change mouse settings?

You should be able to adjust the speed, pointer size, and buttons.

Need support? Select "No" below and we will give you a link to some online support material in your action plan.

Yes No

Tip:

Search 'Mouse Settings' in Windows start menu.

Describe the issue:

Q22. Is the monitor height adjustable?

Target Position:

The top of the screen should be at eye level.

Yes No

Tip:

A monitor riser can help to raise the screen height

Describe the issue:

Q23. Can the monitor rotate and tilt?

Tilt can help to reduce glare and suit your eye level.

Yes No

Tip:

Check if the stand allows tilt adjustment.

Describe the issue:

Q24. Is the monitor size adequate for tasks?

If required to view small details a larger screen may be required.

Safety Tip: Use two monitors to help when using or reviewing multiple systems or documents.

Yes No

Tip:

Request a larger or second monitor if needed.

Describe the issue:

Q25. Is the top of your screen at eye level?

This helps to prevent neck strain from looking up or down.

Target Position:

The top of the screen should be at eye level.

Yes No

Tip:

Adjust monitor height or chair height.

Describe the issue:

Q26. Is your monitor arm's length away?

Approximately 40-70cm.

Yes No

Tip:

Move monitor closer or further.

Describe the issue:

Q27. Are screen characters clear and readable?

Should be sharp, stable, and focused.

Yes No

Tip:

Adjust resolution or clean screen.

Describe the issue:

Q28. Is the text size comfortable?

You shouldn't need to lean forward to read.

Yes No

Tip:

Use zoom or increase font size.

Describe the issue:

Q29. Is the image stable (no flicker)?

Health Warning: Ficker or an unstable screen image can cause eye strain.

Yes No

Tip:

Check cable connections.

Describe the issue:

Q30. Are brightness/contrast adjustable?

These controls are usually on the bottom of your monitor.

Yes No

Tip:

Use monitor buttons to adjust.

Describe the issue:

Q31. Is the screen free from glare?

This may be from ceiling lighting or sunlight through nearby windows.

Yes No

Tip:

Use blinds or reposition screen.

Describe the issue:

Q32. Are you sitting in a neutral position?

Review the image above for the correct seating position

Spine straight with backrest supporting you
Shoulders relaxed
Feet flat on floor or foot rest

Safety Tip: Check your posture regularly it is easy to fall into bad habits.

Yes No

Tip:

Avoid slouching or leaning forward.

Describe the issue:

Q33.Have you had an eye test within the last 24 months?

Regular tests ensure vision health.

You should have regular tests ensure your vision has not deteriorated.

If you need glasses for computer use only, you may be entitled to free eye tests and basic glasses. Select "No" and we will add the details to your action plan.

Yes No

Tip:

You may be entitled for a free eye test.

Describe the issue:

Q34. Do you set up your workstation daily?

It is especially important if you use different desks.

Safety Tip: Setup your workstation each time you use it.

Yes No

Tip:

Take 2 mins to adjust chair/screen.

Describe the issue:

Q35. Are you aware of the need for breaks?

Take 20 mins break every hour, change the task or screen.

Yes No

Tip:

Set reminders to stretch.

Describe the issue:

Q36. Are trip hazards mitigated?

You should be able to walk freely around your space without any hazards.

Safety Tip: There should be no loose cables or boxes in walkways. Incident report any concerns.

Yes No

Tip:

Tidy cables with ties.

Describe the issue:

Q37. Are lighting levels comfortable?

Lighting should not too bright or dim and no flicker.

Yes No

Tip:

The Health & Safety team can measure lighting levels to ensure they are suitable

Describe the issue:

Q38. Is the workplace temperature comfortable?

Should be at least 16°C.

For comfort, offices should be between 16°C and 24°C though it varies by individual.

Minimum Office Temperature: 16°C
There is no maximum temperature
But it must becomfortable

Yes No

Tip:

Report heating issues to facilities.

Describe the issue:

Q39. Does the air feel comfortable?

Avoid drafts or stuffy air.

Yes No

Tip:

Close windows if drafty or increase ventilation where able.

Describe the issue:

Q40. Are noise levels comfortable?

Should not interfere with concentration.

Yes No

Tip:

You may need to consider using noise-cancelling headphones, we can suggest some and add to your action plan.

Describe the issue:

Q41. Are you trained to use the software?

Adequate training reduces stress.

Yes No

Tip:

Request training from your manager.

Describe the issue:

Q42. Do you adjust WOWs correctly?

Ensure Workstations On Wheels are at correct height.

Yes No N/A

Tip:

Ensure you adjust the WOW to suit you.

Describe the issue:

Q43. Do you use laptops/mobile devices?

You may use either equipment such as a laptop or tablet.

Yes No

Tip:

Use a docking station or riser.

Describe the issue:

Q44. Do you use a docking station/riser?

Essential for prolonged laptop use.

Yes No N/A

Tip:

Order a laptop riser if needed.

Describe the issue:

Q45. Can you set up portable devices correctly?

You should use external keyboard, mouse and raise the screen height to eye level.

Health Warning: Prolonged head tilting can result in long term pain in your back, neck and shoulders.

Yes No N/A

Tip:

Treat laptop like a desktop.

Describe the issue:

Q46. Are you able to work comfortably?

With all measures that we just reviewed in place.

Yes No

Tip:

If still uncomfortable, seek further assessment from the Health & Safety team.

Describe the issue:

Q47. Have you been reviewed by Employee Health and Wellbeing?

If referred for a health condition that may be affected by computer work.

Yes No N/A

Tip:

Your manager can make a referral if required.

Describe the issue:

Q48. Has this assessment covered all your concerns?

If you have any other concerns, select No and provide more detail in the box below.

Yes No

Tip:

Provide as much detail as possible so we can help you.

Describe the issue:

DSE Assessment

Step 3 of 4 Review Your Answers

Review Your Answers

#	Question	Answer	Comment	Edit

DSE Assessment

Step 4 of 4 Your Results

Assessment Reference

Your DSE Assessment Results

Complete workstation assessment summary and action plan

Calculating...

Personal Details

Name: Not provided

Department: Not provided

Role: Not provided

Manager Email: Not provided

Date: Not provided

Health & Comfort Needs

Action Plan

Q#	Issue	Recommended Action	Action Taken	By When

Recommended Equipment

Need further help?

Trust Policies & Guidance

For detailed regulations regarding eye tests, maternity assessments, and equipment procurement processes, please refer to the official DSE Policy - HSG 23.

HSG23 - Computer Workstations and Display Screen Equipment

Contact Health & Safety

If you have complex health requirements, persistent pain, or need advice on a specific workstation issue not covered here, please contact the team.

Health.Safety@mft.nhs.uk

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DSE Assessment Tool

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Manager Dashboard

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How the tool works

Health & Wellbeing

Workstation Setup

Q1. Do all the functions work on the chair?

Q2. Is your chair on 5 casters (wheels)?

Q3. Is the chair stable?

Q4. Can the seat height be raised so that when the forearms are parallel with the desk surface they are about a centimetre or two above the desk?

Q5. Are your feet flat on the floor, with your hips slightly higher than your knees?

Q6. Can the backrest be adjusted to properly support your lower back (lumbar spine)?

Q7. Can the tilt be adjusted so that the spine is maintained in a natural ‘S’ shape?

Q8. After adjustments, is your lower back (lumbar) supported?

Q9. Do chair arms allow you to sit close enough to the desk?

Q10. Is the desk surface large enough for your equipment?

Q11. Does the desk depth allow correct monitor distance?

Q12. Is the desk wide/deep enough for your legs?

Q13. Is equipment organised to avoid twisting?

Q14. Is the keyboard positioned correctly?

Q15. Can you lay the keyboard flat on the desk?

Q16. Are the characters on the keys easily readable?

Q17. Do you use good keyboard technique?

Q18. Does the mouse work correctly?

Q19. Is the mouse positioned close to you?

Q20. Is the mouse suitable for you?

Q21. Are you aware how to change mouse settings?

Q22. Is the monitor height adjustable?

Q23. Can the monitor rotate and tilt?

Q24. Is the monitor size adequate for tasks?

Q25. Is the top of your screen at eye level?

Q26. Is your monitor arm's length away?

Q27. Are screen characters clear and readable?

Q28. Is the text size comfortable?

Q29. Is the image stable (no flicker)?

Q30. Are brightness/contrast adjustable?

Q31. Is the screen free from glare?

Q32. Are you sitting in a neutral position?

Q33.Have you had an eye test within the last 24 months?

Q34. Do you set up your workstation daily?

Q35. Are you aware of the need for breaks?

Q36. Are trip hazards mitigated?

Q37. Are lighting levels comfortable?

Q38. Is the workplace temperature comfortable?

Q39. Does the air feel comfortable?

Q40. Are noise levels comfortable?

Q41. Are you trained to use the software?

Q42. Do you adjust WOWs correctly?

Q43. Do you use laptops/mobile devices?

Q44. Do you use a docking station/riser?

Q45. Can you set up portable devices correctly?

Q46. Are you able to work comfortably?

Q47. Have you been reviewed by Employee Health and Wellbeing?

Q48. Has this assessment covered all your concerns?

Review Your Answers

Your DSE Assessment Results

Personal Details

Health & Comfort Needs

Action Plan

Recommended Equipment

Suggested Documents

Need further help?

Trust Policies & Guidance

Contact Health & Safety

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