Who is initially responsible for carrying out a DSE assessment?

The initial responsibility for carrying out a Display Screen Equipment (DSE) assessment falls to each employee. This process is crucial in ensuring that individuals are aware of their working conditions and can identify potential risks related to their use of display screen equipment. Employees are typically best positioned to evaluate their own ergonomic setup, as they can assess their comfort level, make adjustments to their workspace, and report any issues that could lead to discomfort or injury.

While trained professionals and external consultants may play significant roles in overseeing the assessment process or providing expertise, the individual employee is primarily tasked with the initial evaluation. This approach emphasizes the importance of personal responsibility in health and safety practices within the workplace. Additionally, the employer has a duty of care to provide information and support but relies on the input of employees to inform the assessment and guide necessary adjustments.