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While computers are not very dangerous to use, there are some issues to be aware of to keep yourself and others safe.
Safety Hazard | Description |
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Awkward Posture | Refers to the position of your hands and wrists while using the computer keyboard or mouse. May also refer to inappropriate body position while lifting, bending, or twisting. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome can result from awkward posture. |
Repetition | Refers to continual performance of the same task(s) involving the same motion (or group of motions) i.e. moving the mouse or keyboarding. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome can result from repetition. |
Uncomfortable Environment | Refers to the overall comfort of the environment in which computing takes place; poor lighting, glare, noise, air quality, and temperature are some factors that can contribute to an uncomfortable environment. |
Fatigue with Lack of Recovery Time | Refers to using the computer for extended periods of time with no break or change in bodily position. |
Back Strain/Ache | Back strain can occur when lifting heavy objects such as a monitor or printer. Lifting should be done in such a way that the knees do most of the lifting. Do not lift with your back. Backache can occur from sitting in the same position for extended periods of time, such as sitting at a desk for eight hours straight. |
Eye Strain | Eye strain can occur due to prolonged viewing of a computer screen with no rest or break for the eyes. Eye strain can be a symptom of CVS. |
Using a keyboard for extended periods every day can lead to inflammation in the wrists due to poor wrist positioning. People sitting at desks for long periods of time may develop backaches. To avoid these health problems associated with computer use, businesses rely on the science of ergonomics. Ergonomics is the study of designing and positioning equipment and devices to ensure their usefulness and safety to human bodies. When setting up a computer workstation, it is important to think ergonomically in order to make it safe and pleasant for users.
Let’s examine some basic ergonomic considerations for a safe workstation. Below is a person at a typical workstation. The table that follows discusses positions of the monitor, chair, desk, and wrist, and how they should be positioned to prevent injury.
Ergonomic Consideration | Best Practice |
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Monitor Position | Eyestrain can be avoided by keeping the monitor 16 to 24 inches from the face. The top of the monitor should be in straight line with your eyes when looking ahead. |
Chair Position | To avoid back strain, the chair should be adjusted so that your thighs are parallel to the floor when the calves are perpendicular to the floor. Chairs should support the lower back and the back should be perpendicular to the ground. The seat should be positioned so that your feet firmly touch the ground. |
Desk Position | Keyboard should be at a height where your upper arms are perpendicular to the floor while typing. |
Wrist Position | User’s hand should extend straight out from the wrist without the wrist bending to the left or right. |
Using a Telephone/Mobile Phone | User should try to avoid having to bend neck for prolonged periods. User should use speakerphone or headset versus holding the phone between head and shoulders. |
Next, let’s examine the workstation pictured below, and determine if the set-up follows best practices for a safe and healthy work environment. We will look for the best practices outlined above.