Free Employer Resource
Are your teams DSE compliant for 2026? A practical checklist to help employers meet Display Screen Equipment obligations and reduce risk.
Prepared by Boyne Ergonomics Workplace Ergonomics & DSE Compliance Support
How to use this checklist This checklist is designed to help employers quickly review whether their teams are meeting Display Screen Equipment (DSE) requirements. Use it to: • Identify compliance gaps • Spot early ergonomic risks • Support office, hybrid and remote workers • Inform next steps or professional support Tick each section honestly. If issues are identified, action is required.
Important This checklist supports internal review. It does not replace a formal DSE assessment where risks or discomfort are identified.
Employer Legal Duties ☐ A documented DSE policy is in place ☐ All DSE users have completed a DSE assessment with a trained assessor ☐ New starters receive a DSE assessment within their first month ☐ DSE assessments are reviewed when: – Assigned workstations change – Change in workstation furniture / equipment – Discomfort is reported – Employees return from absence or injury ☐ Findings and actions are recorded ☐ Appropriate equipment is provided ☐ Remote and hybrid workers are included ☐ Compliance can be demonstrated if requested by the HSA
Workstation Red Flags Chair ☐ Feet unsupported ☐ Thighs not parallel to floor ☐ No lower back support ☐ Chair not adjustable for the user Desk ☐ Insufficient knee or thigh clearance ☐ Desk too high or too low ☐ Limited depth for screen and input devices
Screen ☐ Screen too low or too high ☐ Screen too far away ☐ Glare from windows or lighting
Keyboard & Mouse ☐ Wrists bent or unsupported ☐ Devices positioned too far away ☐ Contact pressure at desk edge
Environment & Equipment ☐ Lighting is adequate with no glare ☐ Screens positioned perpendicular to windows ☐ Temperature and airflow are comfortable ☐ Noise levels allow concentration ☐ Suitable adjustable chair provided ☐ Appropriate desk or workstation provided ☐ Separate keyboard and mouse available ☐ Laptop riser or external screen used where required ☐ Remote workers receive guidance or equipment support
Early Warning Signs to Act On ☐ Neck or shoulder discomfort ☐ Upper or lower back pain ☐ Arm, wrist or hand discomfort ☐ Tingling or numbness ☐ Headaches linked to screen use ☐ Eye strain or visual fatigue ☐ Frequent posture changes ☐ Reduced productivity linked to discomfort
Important If three or more signs are present, a formal DSE assessment is required. Ongoing pain should be escalated immediately.
Common Compliance Gaps ☐ No records of completed DSE assessments ☐ Hot-desking without daily setup guidance ☐ Laptop-only setups used long term ☐ Kitchen table & chair used for home working ☐ Old or damaged chairs still in use ☐ Discomfort reported but not followed up ☐ Managers unclear on DSE responsibilities
Important Any of the above increases injury, absence and liability risk.
The 10-Min DSE Walkthrough ☐ Chairs set at inconsistent heights ☐ Screens positioned too low or too far away ☐ Staff perched forward without back support ☐ Keyboard and mouse pushed away ☐ Laptop-only setups visible ☐ Staff rubbing necks or shoulders ☐ Cluttered or cramped workstations ☐ Shared equipment missing or damaged
Important Any of the above increases injury, absence and liability risk.
When to Seek Professional Support Professional DSE support is recommended when: • Employees report ongoing discomfort • Similar issues appear across teams • Hot-desking creates inconsistent setups • Hybrid workers have unsuitable home workstations • Documentation is required for compliance • You want expert advice and follow-up • You want to prevent repeat issues Early intervention reduces risk and long-term cost.
About Boyne Ergonomics Boyne Ergonomics supports employers with practical, compliant workplace ergonomics solutions. Services include: • DSE assessments (office and remote) • Group training and awareness sessions • Ergonomic risk assessments • Policy and compliance support • Equipment advice and recommendations • Return-to-work ergonomic guidance
Need support after completing this checklist? Get in touch to discuss DSE assessments or compliance support. Email info@boyneergonmics.ie