Module 1 – Introduction to Workplace Ergonomics
An introduction to ergonomics and why it matters in the modern workplace.
Topics include:
• What is ergonomics?
• Ergonomics and employee wellbeing.
• Ergonomics and workplace health and safety.
• Common causes of ergonomic problems.
• Musculoskeletal discomfort and work-related risks.
• The relationship between the worker, equipment, task and environment.
Module 2 – UK DSE & Ergonomics Requirements
An overview of the UK legal framework surrounding display screen work and workstation assessment.
Topics include:
• Health and Safety (Display Screen Equipment) Regulations 1992.
• Employer responsibilities.
• Employee responsibilities.
• DSE workstation assessment.
• Identifying and controlling risks.
• Reviewing assessments when circumstances change.
• Home and hybrid working considerations.
The HSE states that employers should assess risks associated with DSE use and use the assessment to determine appropriate controls.
Module 3 – Understanding Ergonomic Risk Factors
Learners explore the main factors that can contribute to discomfort or injury.
Topics include:
• Awkward postures.
• Static postures.
• Repetitive movements.
• Poor workstation layout.
• Excessive reaching.
• Incorrect screen position.
• Poor seating position.
• Insufficient workspace.
• Glare and lighting.
• Prolonged uninterrupted computer use.
Module 4 – Workstation Setup
A practical guide to setting up an ergonomic workstation.
Topics include:
• Desk and work surface.
• Chair adjustment.
• Screen height and distance.
• Keyboard positioning.
• Mouse positioning.
• Document holders.
• Foot position.
• Workspace arrangement.
• Frequently used equipment.
• Avoiding excessive reaching and twisting.
HSE guidance recommends practical adjustments such as appropriate screen positioning, sufficient workspace and arranging equipment to avoid awkward neck and eye movements.
Module 5 – Posture & Seating
Learners examine how posture and seating can influence comfort and musculoskeletal risk.
Topics include:
• Neutral posture.
• Head and neck position.
• Shoulder position.
• Back support.
• Hip and knee position.
• Foot support.
• Adjusting chair height.
• Avoiding prolonged static positions.
• Recognising signs of discomfort.
Module 6 – Screens, Keyboards & Mouse Use
This module looks specifically at common DSE equipment.
Topics include:
• Screen height and viewing distance.
• Screen positioning.
• Keyboard placement.
• Mouse positioning.
• Wrist and forearm position.
• Laptop ergonomics.
• External keyboards and mice.
• Multiple screens.
• Tablet and mobile device considerations.
Module 7 – Lighting, Glare & Work Environment
The surrounding work environment can have a significant impact on comfort and concentration.
Topics include:
• Natural and artificial lighting.
• Screen glare.
• Reflections.
• Window positioning.
• Bright light sources.
• Workspace temperature.
• Noise and distractions.
• Keeping the workspace suitable for prolonged computer work.
Module 8 – Breaks & Changes of Activity
Learners explore the importance of avoiding prolonged uninterrupted DSE work.
Topics include:
• Why breaks matter.
• Changes of activity.
• Moving away from the workstation.
• Avoiding prolonged static postures.
• Micro-breaks and movement.
• Planning work to reduce continuous screen use.
• Maintaining healthy working habits.
The HSE DSE guidance emphasises that controlling DSE risks also involves appropriate breaks or changes of activity, alongside workstation controls.
Module 9 – Home & Hybrid Working
Practical guidance for employees working away from the traditional office.
Topics include:
• Setting up a suitable home workstation.
• Laptop use at home.
• Working from temporary locations.
• Avoiding prolonged sofa or bed-based working.
• Making practical adjustments.
• Identifying limitations of the home environment.
• Reporting concerns to the employer.
• Reviewing workstation arrangements when circumstances change.
Module 10 – Identifying & Controlling Ergonomic Risks
Learners are introduced to a simple approach for identifying and addressing workstation problems.
Topics include:
1. Identify the problem.
2. Understand the potential risk.
3. Consider who may be affected.
4. Identify practical improvements.
5. Make the adjustment.
6. Review whether the problem has been resolved.
7. Escalate issues requiring additional support.
The HSE's DSE checklist similarly focuses on identifying workstation risk factors and recording actions where problems are identified.
Practical Workstation Assessment
As part of the course, learners are encouraged to apply the principles covered to their own workstation.
They will consider areas such as:
• Chair and seating position.
• Desk height.
• Screen position.
• Keyboard and mouse.
• Posture.
• Workspace layout.
• Lighting and glare.
• Breaks and changes of activity.
• Laptop use.
• Home-working arrangements.
This helps learners move beyond simply understanding ergonomics and apply the principles to their everyday working environment.
Final Assessment
At the end of the course, learners complete an online knowledge assessment.
Suggested assessment:
• 70% pass mark
• Immediate results
• Questions covering the key principles from all modules
• Certificate available upon successful completion
If required, unsuccessful learners can be permitted to review the course material and retake the assessment.
