asked the Minister for Finance the form of monitoring of Government employees who are operating visual display units which is currently taking place to protect the health and safety of Government employees; if he has satisfied himself that such monitoring is adequate and effective; and if not, the steps he will take to improve the situation.
Written Answers. - VDU Operation Monitoring.
31.
Detailed arrangements on the operation of visual display units (VDU) in the Civil Service were agreed with staff interests in 1983 and circulated to all Departments for implementation. The arrangements cover all health and safety aspects of operation and monitoring including eye tests, breaks from continuous viewing and ergonomic factors such as equipment, working environment and design of workplace. The national guidelines on the safe operation of VDUs produced by the Department of Labour in 1986 were sent to all Departments. My Department monitors international research studies on the operation of VDUs while individual Departments are responsible for the application of the agreement on VDU operation. I am satisfied that the agreed monitoring arrangements are adequate and effective.