Keyboards

Is the keyboard separate from the screen?

Things to consider - This is a requirement, unless the task makes it impracticable (eg where there is a need to use a portable).

Does the keyboard tilt?

Is it possible to kind a comfortable keyboarding position?

Things to consider - Try pushing the display screen further back to create more room for the keyboard, hands and wrists. Users of thick raised keyboards may need a wrist rest.

Does the user have good keyboard technique?

Things to consider - Training can be used to prevent hands bent up at the wrist, hitting the keys to hard or overstretching the fingers.

Are the characters clear and readable?

Things to consider - Keyboards should be kept clean. If characters still can’t be read, the keyboard may need modifying or replacing. Use a keyboard with a matt finish to reduce glare and/or reflection.

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Mouse, Trackball etc

Is the device suitable for the tasks it is used for?

Things to consider - If the user is having problems, try a different device. The mouse and trackball are general-purpose devices suitable for many tasks, and available in a variety of shapes and sizes. Alternative devices such as touch screens may be better for some tasks (but can be worse for others).

Is the device positioned close to the user?

Things to consider - Most devices are best placed as close as possible, eg right beside the keyboard. Training may be needed to prevent arm overreaching, encourage users not to leave their hand on the device when it is not being used and encourage a relaxed arm and straight wrist.

Is there support for the device user’s wrist and forearm?

Things to consider - Support can be gained from, for example, the desk surface or arm of a chair. If not, a separate supporting device may help. The user should be able to find a comfortable working position with the device.

Does the device work smoothly at a speed that suits the user?

Things to consider -  See if cleaning is required (eg of mouse ball and rollers). Check the work surface is suitable. A mouse mat may be needed.

Can the user easily adjust software settings for speed and accuracy of pointer?

Things to consider - Users may need training in how to adjust device settings.

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Display Screens

Are the characters clear and readable?

Things to consider - Make sure the screen is clean and cleaning materials are available. Check that the text and background colours work well together.

Is the text size comfortable to read?

Things to consider - Software settings may need adjusting to change text size.

Is the image stable, ie free of flicker and jitter?

Things to consider - Try using different screen colours to reduce flicker, eg darker background and lighter text. If there are still problems, get the set-up checked, eg by the equipment supplier.

Is the screen’s specification suitable for its intended use?

Things to consider - For example, intensive graphic work or work requiring fine attention to small details may require large display screens.

Are the brightness and/or contrast adjustable?

Things to consider - Separate adjustment controls are not essential, provided the user can read the screen easily at all times.

Does the screen swivel and tilt?

Things to consider - Swivel and tilt need not be built in, you can add a swivel and tilt mechanism. However, you may need to replace the screen if swivel/tilt is absent or unsatisfactory, work is intensive; and/or the user has problems getting the screen to a comfortable position.

Is the screen free from glare and reflections?

Things to consider - Use a mirror placed in front of the screen to check where reflections are coming from. You might need to move the screen or even the desk and/or shield the screen from the source of the reflections. Screens that use dark characters on a light background are less prone to glare and reflections.

Are adjustable window coverings provided and in adequate condition?<

Things to consider - Check that blinds work. Blinds with vertical slats can be more suitable than horizontal ones. If these measures do not work, consider anti-glare screen filters as a last resort and seek specialist help.

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Software

Is the software suitable for the task?

Things to consider - Software should help the user carry out the task, minimise stress and be user-friendly. Check users have had appropriate training in using the software. Software should respond quickly and clearly to user input, with adequate feedback, such as clear help messages.

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Furniture

Is the work surface large enough for all the necessary equipment, papers etc?

Things to consider - Create more room by moving printers, reference materials etc elsewhere. If necessary, consider providing new power and telecoms sockets, so equipment can be moved. There should be some scope for flexible rearrangement.

Can the user comfortably reach all the equipment and papers they need to use?

Things to consider - Rearrange equipment, papers etc to bring frequently used things within easy reach. A document holder may be needed, positioned to minimise uncomfortable head and eye movements.

Are surfaces free from glare and reflection?

Things to consider - Consider mats or blotters to reduce reflections and glare.

Is the chair suitable? Is the chair stable? Does the chair have a working seat back height and tilt adjustment?, seat height adjustment? , castors or glides?

Things to consider - The chair may need repairing or replacing if the user is uncomfortable, or cannot use the adjustment mechanisms.

Is the chair adjusted correctly?

Things to consider - The user should be able to carry out their work sitting comfortably. Consider training the user in how to adopt suitable postures while working. The arms of chairs can stop the user getting close enough to use the equipment comfortably. Move any obstructions from under the desk.

Is the small of the back supported by the chair’s backrest?

Things to consider - The user should have a straight back, supported by the chair, with relaxed shoulders.

Are forearms horizontal and eyes at roughly the same height as the top of the DSE?

Things to consider - Adjust the chair height to get the user’s arms in the right position, and then adjust the DSE height, if necessary.

Are feet flat on the floor, without too much pressure from the seat on the backs of the legs?

Things to consider - If not, a footrest may be needed.

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Environment

Is there enough room to change position and vary movement?

Things to consider - Space is needed to move, stretch and fidget. Consider reorganising the office layout and check for obstructions. Cables should be tidy and not a trip or snag hazard.

Is the lighting suitable, eg not too bright or too dim to work comfortably?

Things to consider - Users should be able to control light levels, eg by adjusting window blinds or light switches. Consider shading or re positioning light sources or providing local lighting, eg desk lamps (but make sure lights don’t cause glare by reflecting off walls or other surfaces).

Does the air feel comfortable?

Things to consider -  DSE and other equipment may dry the air. Circulate fresh air if possible. Plants may help. Consider a humidifier if discomfort is severe.

Are levels of heat comfortable?

Things to consider - Can heating be better controlled? More ventilation or air conditioning may be required if there is a lot of electronic equipment in the room. Or, can users be moved away from the heat source?

Are levels of noise comfortable?

Things to consider - Consider moving sources of noise, eg printers, away from the user. If not, consider soundproofing.

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Final Questions to the users....

Has the checklist covered all the problems they may have working with their DSE?
Have they experienced any discomfort or other symptoms which they attribute to working with their DSE?
Has the user been advised of their entitlement to eye and eyesight testing?
Does the user take regular breaks working away from DSE?

Write down the details of any problems here: