When DSE Demand Increases: Why Reactive Models Stop Working

In this episode of Ergonomically Speaking…, I’m exploring a pattern I see regularly in my work with organisations managing DSE and wider ergonomic risk.Many organisations start out with a largely reactive approach to DSE. Someone reports discomfort, an assessment is arranged, and adjustments are made. At low volume, this approach can feel efficient and entirely workable.But as organisations grow and become more complex, that same model can start to struggle.In this episode, I discuss:why reactive DSE models often work well at low volumewhat changes as assessment demand increaseshow hybrid working and role variation add complexitywhy consistency becomes more important as organisations scalethe difference between reactive support and proactive DSE managementhow building internal capability can reduce pressure without replacing specialist inputwhy most organisations benefit from a blended approachI also clarify an important point around compliance: DSE workstation risk assessments are a legal requirement, regardless of whether discomfort has been reported. The distinction isn’t whether assessments are completed, but the depth and intensity of follow-up required.This episode is aimed at employers, HR, Health & Safety, and Facilities teams who are starting to feel the strain of increased DSE demand and are considering how to manage it more sustainably.Thoughtful structure doesn’t add complexity — it makes everything else easier to manage.👉 Full blog post: https://boyneergonomics.ie/when-dse-demand-increases-why-reactive-models-stop-working/💬 Let's Keep the Conversation Going!Have a question, a tip, or an “aha!” moment from this episode?www.boyneergonomics.ieInstagram: boyne_ergonomicsBluesky: boyne-ergonomics.bsky.socialLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/niamhpentonyTikTok: @niamh_boyneergo🙌 Thank You for Listening!If you found this episode useful, share it with a colleague in HR, Health & Safety or Operations.Subscribe for more evidence-based ergonomics insights, and if you’re planning your 2026 ergonomics strategy, get in touch — I’d love to help.