Course Outline
Module 1 – Understanding DSE
• What is Display Screen Equipment?
• What is a DSE user?
• What is a workstation?
• Common examples of DSE
• Understanding DSE-related workplace risks
Module 2 – DSE Legislation & Responsibilities
• Overview of Irish DSE requirements
• Employer responsibilities
• Employee responsibilities
• Workstation assessment
• Information and training
• Reporting concerns and workplace issues
Module 3 – DSE Risks & Ergonomics
• Understanding ergonomics
• Common DSE-related health risks
• Musculoskeletal discomfort
• Neck, shoulder and back problems
• Wrist and upper-limb discomfort
• Eye strain and visual fatigue
• The importance of good workstation design
Module 4 – Setting Up Your Workstation
• Correct chair adjustment
• Desk and work surface
• Screen height and position
• Screen distance
• Keyboard positioning
• Mouse positioning
• Footrests and document holders
• Dual-screen workstation setup
Module 5 – Laptop & Home Working
• Safe laptop use
• Laptop positioning
• External keyboard and mouse
• Laptop stands
• Home working considerations
• Hybrid and remote working
• Avoiding poor laptop posture
Module 6 – Lighting, Screens & Working Environment
• Screen brightness and contrast
• Glare and reflections
• Appropriate lighting
• Window positioning
• Workplace environment
• Temperature and ventilation
• Creating a comfortable working environment
Module 7 – Breaks, Movement & Good Working Practices
• The importance of breaks
• Changes of activity
• Avoiding prolonged static postures
• Movement during the working day
• Managing prolonged screen use
• Developing good DSE habits
Module 8 – Knowledge Assessment
Online assessment covering the key principles presented throughout the course.
Who the Course Is For
This course is suitable for:
• Office employees
• Administrative staff
• Managers and supervisors
• HR professionals
• Health & Safety personnel
• Remote and hybrid workers
• Home workers
• Call centre employees
• Computer-based workers
• Employees using laptops regularly
• Employees working with multiple screens
• Organisations introducing new workstation arrangements
The Irish DSE requirements are particularly relevant where employees habitually use display screen equipment as a significant part of their normal work.
Why This Training Is Important
Employees can spend many hours each day working at computers and laptops. Poor workstation setup and working practices can contribute to discomfort and health problems.
DSE awareness helps employees understand how to:
• Set up their workstation correctly
• Maintain a safer working posture
• Reduce unnecessary strain
• Identify potential workstation hazards
• Use screens and equipment appropriately
• Recognise signs of discomfort
• Understand the importance of breaks and movement
• Make appropriate adjustments to their workstation
• Raise concerns where additional assessment or support may be required
Employers also have duties relating to workstation analysis, risk control, employee information, training and eyesight testing.
Course Objectives
By the end of the course, participants will be able to:
• Explain what Display Screen Equipment means
• Identify who may be considered a DSE user
• Understand the main Irish DSE legislation
• Understand employer and employee responsibilities
• Identify common DSE-related hazards
• Recognise the potential effects of poor workstation design
• Apply basic ergonomic principles
• Adjust their chair correctly
• Position their screen appropriately
• Correctly position their keyboard and mouse
• Identify appropriate workstation lighting
• Understand the importance of breaks and changes of activity
• Apply good practice when working with laptops
• Identify potential issues with home and hybrid workstations
• Recognise when a workstation may require further assessment
• Apply practical DSE principles to their own working environment
Course Format & Delivery
Delivery: Online E-Learning
Assessment: Online knowledge assessment
Format: Self-paced
Certificate: Certificate of Completion following successful completion
Irish Legislation Supported
The course supports awareness of the Irish requirements relating to Display Screen Equipment, including:
• Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005
• Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (General Application) Regulations 2007 – Chapter 5 of Part 2: Display Screen Equipment
The course covers employee awareness of workstation setup, DSE risks, information and training, work organisation and good working practices.
DSE awareness training does not replace an employer's responsibility to carry out appropriate workstation analysis, risk assessment and corrective measures where required.
FAQ's
How long does the DSE Awareness E-Learning course take?
Approximately 40–45 minutes, including the online knowledge assessment.
Is the course suitable for remote workers?
Yes. The course includes guidance on laptop use, home working, workstation setup and hybrid working.
Does the course cover laptops?
Yes. The course covers laptop positioning and the use of accessories such as external keyboards, mice and laptop stands.
Does the course cover ergonomics?
Yes. The course introduces basic ergonomic principles, posture, workstation positioning and common DSE-related risks.
Does the course cover Irish legislation?
Yes. The course provides an overview of the key Irish requirements relating to Display Screen Equipment.
Samson
