§ Mrs. Clwydasked the Secretary of State for Social Services (1) whether his Department will be undertaking research into the health risks for men working on visual display units;
(2) what steps his Department is taking to investigate possible hazards for women working on unprotected visual display units.
§ Mr. Peter BottomleyI have been asked to reply.
The Health and Safety Executive published a research paper in 1980 and a guidance note in 1983, both of which consider the health aspects of operating VDUs. Further guidance is to be published shortly. Current work being undertaken by the executive includes studies on skin problems in VDU operators, possible reproductive problems, the ergonomic design of VDU equipment and the design of workplaces and lighting for VDU operation. The commissioning of further research into aspects of VDU job design is being considered. The Health and Safety Executive continues to keep the subject under review.