Safety Alert: Risk of Injury from Motorised Display Screen Wall Mounts in Educational Settings

There have been serious injuries, including to young children, caused by collapsing or unstable mounts. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) regards this as a significant risk. Employers, suppliers, and manufacturers all share legal duties under health and safety legislation to take action and prevent harm.

When operated by unauthorised or untrained users, particularly children or other vulnerable individuals, risks include:

• Equipment colliding with nearby objects or becoming unstable; and

• Crushing injuries between the screen (or its frame) and fixed furniture.

The Office for Product Safety and Standards has issued a safety report on GOV.UK regarding the Conen Motorised Display Wall Mount (SCETAW). This alert applies to users, installers, manufacturers, and purchasers of this and similar motorised mounts.

Motorised, height-adjustable display mounts—commonly used in schools and other educational environments—can present serious safety hazards if not installed, maintained, or used correctly.

Safety Concerns Identified

Motorised wall- or floor-mounted display systems (which may weigh up to 150kg) can cause significant injury where:

• The riser column detaches from the wall or floor and falls forward;

• Motorised movement creates crushing hazards with nearby fixed objects;

• Children can access or operate the controls;

• Wall or floor fixings are inadequate, damaged, or overloaded; and

• The unit lacks anti-collision sensors, safety limit devices, or motor reversal features when obstructed.

Additionally, mobile/trolley-mounted versions may overturn, creating further risk.

Actions Required For Schools and Education Leaders

As duty holders under health and safety law, education providers must ensure these systems are safe to use:

• Carry out a risk assessment of all motorised mounts in use;

• Check installation complies with manufacturer’s instructions;

• Contact suppliers or manufacturers immediately if your equipment lacks anti-collision sensors or safety limit devices;and

• Implement any recommended safety upgrades or retrofitting.

Ongoing Safety Measures

• Inspect wall and floor fixings regularly, especially after impact or visible damage;

• Ensure all units include anti-collision features;

• Position mounts clear of furniture and obstacles;

• Restrict controls to authorised, trained staff—keep them out of children’s reach; and

• Refer to the HSE’s introduction to machinery safety for further guidance on risk assessment.