Posted By Neil Budworth Hi We have used the criteria from the guidance before to classify people as users. This is an extract from the form 5.0 VDU USERS 5.1The individual normally uses display screen equipment for continuous spells of an hour or more at a time (whether or not these spells are broken by short breaks or changes of activity). 5.2 The individual uses display screen equipment in this way more or less daily. 5.3The individual needs significant training to acquire skills in the use of display screen equipment to do the job. 5.4 The individual depends on the use of display screen equipment to do the job, as alternative means are not readily available for achieving the same results. 5.5 The individual has no discretion as to use or non-use of the display screen equipment. 5.6 Fast transfer of information between the user and screen is an important requirement of the job. 5.7 The performance requirements of the system demand high levels of attention and concentration by the user, e.g. where the consequences of error may be critical. Are the answers to questions 5.1 and 5.2 YES Are the answers to four of the questions YES If so the person is a user Best Regards Neil

Posted By Ken Taylor I wish the Regulations and Guidance were clearer on this issue. You should, however, carefully read 'Display Screen Equipment Work' (L26) (HSE Books 01787 881165). With subsequent criminal and civil action as a possibility (let alone the morality of the issue) it is generally wiser to designate someone as a user than not if there is any doubt!