Online Level 1 DSE & VDU Course | Beginner
1
Become a Certified Ergonomic Assessor
Course Overview
This Level 1 course equips participants with the essential knowledge and practical skills to carry out Visual Display Unit (VDU) / Display Screen Equipment (DSE) assessments in compliance with Irish and European legislation. Designed for professionals involved in workplace health and safety, this course helps ensure safe workstation practices, reduce the risk of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), and promote overall employee wellbeing in office environments.
Key Benefits:
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Gain a clear understanding of the 2007 Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (General Application) Regulations.
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Learn to identify hazards and risks associated with VDU/DSE use.
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Conduct thorough workstation assessments with end-users.
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Support the development of company policies on safe computer workstation practices.
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Receive a recognised KOS Training Academy Certificate upon successful completion.
Course Objectives:
By the end of the course, participants will be able to:
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Understand the legal requirements for VDU/DSE usage under Irish and EU law.
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Assess workstations to identify potential hazards to eyesight, posture, and mental health.
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Advise on practical measures to prevent MSDs and improve employee comfort.
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Assist in shaping your organisation’s VDU/DSE policies.
Course Content:
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Ergonomics and anthropometrics for office work
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Legal requirements under Irish and EU Health & Safety legislation
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Hazards and risks associated with VDU/DSE usage
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Workstation ergonomics and environmental factors
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Case studies, recent research, and emerging workplace issues (hot-desking, sit-stand desks, home working, laptop/tablet use)
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Assessment techniques and evaluation
Assessment & Certification:
To gain certification, participants must:
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Pass the theory exam
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Complete a practical workstation assessment
Course Duration & Format:
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1 full day (9:00 am – 5:00 pm)
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Delivered remotely via Teams , Zoom
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Includes interactive lectures, group exercises, explainer videos, polls, and practical assessments
VDU Course Details:
- Delivered Online
- Full-Day Course - 9am-5pm
- Fully Certified For 3 Years
- Assess DSE and VDU Users In-person
- Full Course Information Pack - Post-Completion
- Complete After-Care From KOS Training Academy
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Posture Tips & Improved Ergonomics
Sitting for long periods can often lead to discomfort or pain, especially in areas like your hips, lower back, and tailbone. Here are some simple, effective tips to help improve your posture and reduce common issues like hip pain when sitting, lower back pain when sitting, and tailbone pain when sitting.
1. Support Your Lower Back
If your lower back hurts when sitting, it's often due to a lack of proper support. Make sure your chair has good lumbar support to keep your spine aligned. You can also use a small cushion to provide extra support if needed.
2. Keep Your Hips at the Right Angle
When your hip hurts when sitting, it may be due to poor alignment. Your hips should be level with or slightly higher than your knees. Adjust your chair height so your feet are flat on the ground and your knees form a 90-degree angle. This can help reduce hip joint pain while sitting and prevent buttock pain when sitting and lying down.
3. Adjust Your Seat Position
For those dealing with coccyx pain when sitting or a sore tailbone from sitting, ensure your seat isn’t pressing too hard on your tailbone. Try a cushion with a cut-out section to relieve pressure on the tailbone and improve comfort.
4. Move Regularly
If you feel buttock ache when sitting or hip discomfort when sitting, it's a sign that your body needs a break. Stand up, stretch, or take a short walk every 30-60 minutes. Regular movement can ease tension and prevent hip ache when sitting or lower back pain while sitting.
5. Exercise for Strength and Flexibility
A good workout for back pain can strengthen your core and back muscles, reducing discomfort. Exercises like gentle stretches or yoga can help relieve bottom pain when sitting, butt pain while sitting, and improve overall posture.
By following these posture tips and incorporating ergonomic tips into your daily routine, you can reduce discomfort and improve your overall well-being while sitting. Make sure to listen to your body and adjust your workspace as needed to stay comfortable throughout the day.
Download Your FREE Posture Watch Poster!
Get Serious About Your Posture With This Helpful, Free Reminder!
Our Level 1 VDU / DSE courses are delivered by highly experienced ergonomic and health & safety professionals who work with leading Irish companies to minimise workplace risks and improve office ergonomics.
For more details about who should attend, course delivery, course content and certification, please see our FAQs at the bottom of the page.
Alternative Products
Group Training | Level 1 VDU Assessor Course | Beginner
Group Training | Level 2 VDU Assessor Course | Advanced/Refresher
Online Level 2 DSE Assessor Course | Advanced/Refresher
Group Training | Remote DSE Assessor Course | DSE Group Assessor Course
Performing A DSE Compliant Remote Assessment | DSE Assessor Course
Frequently Asked Questions
A: This is an online ergonomic training course designed to teach participants how to assess Visual Display Units (VDU) / Display Screen Equipment (DSE) safely and in compliance with Irish and European health & safety regulations. It covers workstation assessments, ergonomics, and MSD prevention.
A: This course is suitable for anyone responsible for workplace safety or office ergonomics, including:
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Health & Safety managers or consultants
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Health & Safety representatives
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Occupational health professionals
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Facilities management staff
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Architects involved in office design
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Office managers and business owners
A: No. This beginner-friendly online DSE/VDU course is suitable for anyone, regardless of prior ergonomics or health & safety experience.
A: The course is fully online via Microsoft Teams, featuring interactive lectures, group exercises, explainer videos, polls, and practical workstation assessments.
A: The course runs for 1 full day (9am–5pm) with breaks.
A: The course is delivered by highly experienced ergonomic and health & safety professionals from KOS Ergonomics, who work with leading Irish companies to reduce workplace risks and improve office ergonomics.
A: Yes. Participants who successfully complete the theory exam and practical assessment will receive a KOS Training Academy Level 1 VDU / DSE Assessor Certificate.
A: You’ll need a computer or tablet with a camera, microphone, and stable internet connection. A typical home or office workstation is sufficient for the practical exercises.
A: Key topics include:
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Ergonomics and anthropometrics for office work
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Hazards and risks associated with VDU/DSE use
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Legal requirements under Irish and EU legislation
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Workstation setup, environmental factors, and emerging trends (hot-desking, sit-stand desks, home working, laptop/tablet use)
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Practical assessment and evaluation techniques
A: Yes. The course covers Regulation 72 of the 2007 Safety, Health & Welfare at Work Regulations, along with European Directive 90/270/EEC to ensure compliance for all EU countries.
A: Absolutely. By training staff as certified VDU / DSE assessors, your organisation can reduce musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), improve employee wellbeing, and ensure compliance with legal obligations.
A: Yes. Participants have access to KOS Ergonomics’ expert advice and resources for any follow-up questions related to workstation assessments or ergonomics.
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