blatantly obvious question can the work station be moved?

Edited by user 22 June 2017 18:27:35(UTC)  | Reason: Not specified

I would consider moving the workstation firstly,  or if not possible installing an acoustic screen to cut down both noise and dust.  I think there are some valid points and having been made, you really need to be seen to be doing something.  The vibration issue needs some deeper investigation so perhaps you could sit there and have someone move pallets and other stuff around to see if this is a real issue.  You can get AV matting, but you would need to cover a large area to ensure that the chair did not roll off the mat and cause a fall issue.

I don't think any of this stuff should be dismissed without deeper investigation.  You asked the question and you got a response.  Now you need to deal with the fall out.

How much time do they actually spend at the desk?

Does the desk have to be there?

What do they do at that desk?  If it is just updating the data base then surely you could invest in something that runs on  a tablet?

Originally Posted by: achrn

Originally Posted by: WatsonD

Just a thought, but could you not have used the argos catalogue to source a nice monitor stand?

Argos catalogues are cheaper than monitor stands, and no less effective.  I generally recommend people use a book if they want to raise their monitor just a little.  Personally, I used a maths textbook (Kreyszig) for many years (but then IT replaced my monitor for other reasons and it was no longer required).

Nothing says 'we undervalue you' better than a cheap, quick fix solution

Hi Ryan,

I would need more detailed information to be able to advise.

It seems the comments were made by the DSE user, perhaps via a self-assessment questionnaire, am I right? If so, such comments should only be used to inform a more comprehensive assessment.

 As you know, back pain can be triggered by both work and non-work related factors. In case of the former, we are obliged to risk assessing any potential factors at work that could contribute to/aggravate/exacerbate the employee's pain. I would therefore suggest that a trained DSE assessor risk assesses the workstation as postural issues may be playing an important role. If the problem persists, either calling in an ergonomist or a referral to occupational health may be beneficial.

The DSE assessor should not only be looking at desk, chair, monitor and peripherals, but at user-workstation fit, exposure to MSDs, opportunities for breaks, frequency of breaks, lighting, noise levels - these are a source of distraction and stress which could lead to discomfort and pain - etc. She/he should also bear in mind both, DSE and Welfare regulations.

Sorry I cannot be more specific but don’t like prescribing without carrying out a good diagnosis first.