Visual display units

• Introduction
• Legislation
• Further information

Introduction

Visual Display Units (VDUs) are a common feature in offices, banks, shops, food premises, and factories. Employers need to carry out risk assessments before employees use VDUs in their premises, and during use of the VDUs. Backache, eyestrain, headache, upper limb disorders, and stress are just some of the conditions associated with poorly located VDUs, a lack of training, or, for instance, over use by an employee.

Legislation

Employers have a duty to comply with The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and the Health and Safety (Display Screen Equipment) Regulations 1992. Risk assessments must be carried out.

Further information

• The Health and Safety (Display Screen Equipment) Regulations 1992
  Statutory Instrument No. 2792
• Working with VDUs [PDF file information]
  Published by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) ISBN 0717622223.
• Epilepsy and working with VDUs [PDF file]