b10 ergonomic factors

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Table Of Contents0: Ergonomic factors

7T

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Element B10: Ergonomic factors

Learningoutcomes

On completion of this element, candidates should be able to:

Outline the conditions and effects resulting from poor ergonomics in the

workplace and the risk reduction methods that can be applied

Explain the ill health effects associated with the use of display screen equipment

together with appropriate risk assessment and control strategies

Explain the assessment and control of risk from manual handling activities and

the main injuries that can occur.

Minimum hours of tuition 4 hours.

1.0 Ergonomics

A Guide to Work Related Upper Limb Disorders (WRULDs)

Definition

The termWRULDis used here as synonymous with RepetitiveStrainInjury,Cumulative Trauma

Disorder etc. It is a somewhat vague term under which a large variety of conditions and symptoms

are classed. A fundamental distinction can be made between those conditions with a specific

recognised medical diagnosis and those of a so-called 'diffuse' nature which still lack a clear-cut

diagnosis. Within the first category, the non-diffuse group, the following conditions are

frequently encountered:

carpal tunnel syndrome

tendonitis

tenosynovitis

de Quervain's syndrome

tennis elbow

thoracic outlet syndrome and others.

All these are 'classic' conditions, well recognised, with prescribed clinical tests and clear-cut

associated symptoms. This is in contrast to the diffuse group of conditions, which largely escape

the clinical tests and sophisticated medical investigation. The factors that are consistent in this

group are:

similarities in individuals' causative history
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similarities in individuals' symptoms and symptom behaviour

often disappointing results to non-diffuse type treatment

The diffuse group of conditions is characterised by a range of symptoms (ache, pain, tingling,

cramps, numbness, heaviness, tightness and others) which tend to vary in location, intensity and

nature. It is typical for symptoms to 'jump around' and once established, to appear spontaneously

without obvious trigger or cause. Symptoms are often felt 'deep' in the tissues and can be hard to

describe by those who experience them. Another aspect can be the emergence of symptoms

generally associated with the sympathetic nervous system. Examples include the reporting of

heaviness, hands feeling hot or cold, swelling and tightness, usually without any visible signs.

In contrast with conditions such as 'tennis elbow' and carpal tunnel syndrome, the structure at

fault is not easily identifiable. Difficulties with diagnostic tests and changing symptoms have in

the past led some people to believe that this condition is predominantly 'in the mind' rather than

reflecting a physical injury. Even though psychological factors do play a role, recent research has

clearly identified measurable nerve function deficits.

1.1 Risk Factors

In spite of the wealth of information and opinions on diffuseWRULD's, the current medical

understandingof exactly how this condition is caused, what the damage consists of and how to

determine a prognosis, is still very limited. However, 3 groups of risk factors have been identified

and are generally accepted as such.

These are:

static muscle loading

overuse and repetition

stress

These risk factors are identical for both the diffuse and the non-diffuse conditions. There is

anecdotal evidence to suggest that people using the keyboard and mouse are more likely to

develop a diffuse condition. Those working in an industrial setting seem to be more likely to

develop a more specific form ofWRULD.This is likely to be related to the different 'mix' of risk

factors in these settings.

Static muscle loading

Static muscle loading describes muscular activity, which focuses on holding an object or on

maintaining a certain posture or position which involves little or no movement. The problem with
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problem may coexist, the real cause of the diffuse pains appears to be located in the nerve

structures. A combination of nerve compression, reduced blood supply and over-excitation

through the body'sstressresponse is believed to cause a low level inflammation of the nerves.

This in turn alters the functioning of these neural structures, generating any of the symptoms

listed earlier. As a result, normal touch can cause discomfort and gentle movements can become

acutely painful. As the nervous system itself is affected, symptoms can vary greatly. No longer do

these nerves simply transmit the information its receptors pick up but they may distort the

messages and can even generate their own.

Treatment

Frequently people withWRULDseek treatment only when the symptoms start to seriously

interfere with their work or when their pains persist even during rest. This is unfortunate as early

intervention produces the best and fastest results. In our experience the most effective

treatment lies in a combination of hands-on techniques, exercises, relaxation, good workstation

ergonomics and advice on posture and work pacing. Rest alone does not cureWRULD's, it may at

best settle the symptoms temporarily. However, prolonged rest will lead to a deconditioning and

weakening of the muscles and associated structures. Before embarking on an exercise regime it is

advisable to have an assessment by a physiotherapist who is specialised in the treatment of these

disorders to ensure appropriate exercises are given. From an initial assessment the therapist

should be able to determine the main underlying contributory factors and develop an appropriate

treatment programme for each individual. During the course of treatment, the symptoms

experienced by the individual often change. An experienced therapist is able to interpret these

changes and to adjust and progress the treatment accordingly. As these disorders take some time

to develop, they tend to take time to resolve and often require changes in work pattern and in

postural or tension habits. Therefore, treatment can continue over a longer period of time than

initially expected.

At times, when a person is first assessed, his or her symptoms are quite acute. As the symptoms

ease, the treatments are spread out over time with emphasis being placed on self- management.This should allow for new postural and work habits to be formed and a set of exercises to be

carried out regularly. There is no standard treatment period: for some people who seek

treatment early three or four sessions are sufficient; for others who have developed a more

chronic problem treatment may continue for a number of years with appointments at three- or

six-monthly intervals.

The physiotherapy techniques that have been found to be most effective include:

neural and spinal mobilisation
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soft tissue techniques

postural and muscle imbalance work

Exercises are a crucial part of treatment and a specific programme should be developed for each

individual to follow. This should include exercises to be used both at home and at work. We often

recommend taking up some form of general exercise. This can involve gentle gym workouts,

swimming or organised classes. As a rule swimming, yoga, gentle stretch classes and walking are

preferable to racquet sports and weight training.

People with an established and chronic condition will benefit from a formal work rehabilitation

programme, which will progressively increase the tolerance to the critical activity.

Prognosis

Most people withWRULDmake a good recovery with appropriate treatment. Some need a long

time and some might have to limit or space out particularly straining tasks. Factors that affect

the prognosis are:

The duration ofWRULDsymptoms

The intensity and spread of symptoms

The time it takes symptoms to ease when stirred up.

There may also be underlying postural problems such as a long-standing old back injury or an

altered spinal curvature that can affect the prognosis. The work that people are involved in and

their ability to manage it, allowing sufficient rest periods or avoidance of specific tasks, will also

be of importance as maystressor psychological factors.

Posture

Posture is the position of the parts of your body in relation to each other. Your posture constantly

changes depending on the activity; but no matter what you are doing, there is a way of holdingand moving your body that is balanced and efficient. This is called good posture. It is a state of

muscular and skeletal balance which protects the bones, ligaments and muscles of the body

against injury or progressive deformity. Good posture makes movement more effective and more

energy efficient, whilst minimisingstress.We talk about the body being in balance. If someone

has good posture in standing, for example, when measuring muscle activity in this position you

will find there is almost none to be recorded, because the skeletal frame is perfectly balanced

and does not require additional support from the muscles.
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Your posture is second nature to you, a taken-for-granted habit. If you have poor posture,

probably others are more aware of it than you are. You may be aware only of chronic fatigue,

headaches or backaches which can stem from poor posture. Poor posture causes muscular strain,

particularly of the spinal muscles and therefore wastes energy. It produces unevenstresson

spinal joints and discs and may cause permanent damage.

When postural habits are good, you can work and play longer without fatigue because your

muscles work more efficiently. Your spine has a chance to develop normally and your internal

organs function better. You look healthier and happier, your clothes fit better, and you make a

better impression on others.

Poor postural habits can lead to secondary problems, e.g. stiffness of the joints in the mid/upper

back and hip, excessive movement of the joints in the neck and low back, pressure on nerves,

lengthened and weakened muscles or tightened and overly strong muscles. All of these can

produce pain and disability and destroy the natural balance of the body.

1.2 This state of "perfect balance" is best achieved by:-

a. Avoiding a poking chin position and keeping your head level so that a perpendicular

line dropped from just below your eye will hit your collar bone. This should have the

effect of lifting your breast bone up a little and make you stand a bit taller.

b. Allow your shoulders to relax so that the arms hang loosely by your sides.

c. Tighten your tummy muscles as hard as you can without holding your breath, then

let them relax by just over half. Try to maintain that level of tension as you go about

the daily activities.

d. When standing or sitting get into the habit of tightening the backside muscles. Hold

for 10 to 15 seconds then relax. Try to consciously tighten them a little when walking.

You will find that if you use your stomach muscles as suggested then your bottom

muscles will automatically work more when you are walking.

e. When you stand, your lower back should curve slightly. This curve called a lordosis

helps to distribute your weight properly through the spine and pelvis. The discs located

between each of the vertebrae act as shock absorbers. Excessive pressure within the

discs may, when sitting, cause damage, but this can be avoided through proper

posture.
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6. putting seat too ar back or forward;

7. using flat seat backs unless a supportive cushion can be used.

1.4 Managing WRULDs- according to the Health and SafetyExecutive:

WRULDs can be effectively managed in the workplace by:

Assessing the risks - this means looking around your workplace to see which

jobs may cause harm

Reducing the risk of WRULDs - this could mean changing the way work is

organised

Helping sufferers back to work

Assessing the risks of WRULDs in your workplace


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To help you find out which tasks are risky, watch workers as they carry out their jobs,

ask them about any problems and check any illness/injury records. The main areas

that are likely to increase the risk of WRULDs are listed in the table below. They can

interact with each other to increase the risk.

1.5 Reducing the risk of ULDs


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If your investigations (known as a risk assessment) show that there is a problem, the

following section provides some helpful suggestions for reducing the risks. A few

general tips are:

Changes do not necessarily need to be expensive. Simple and low cost changes can

often be effective;

Try to consider risk when setting up new workstations. It is cheaper than redesigning

them or purchasing more suitable tools at a later stage;

Tackle the serious risks or those that affect a large number of workers first;

Try to make the task and workstation suitable for each worker, rather than make the

worker adapt to fit the task and workstation;

Test any changes on one or two workers before making changes for everyone.


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1.6 Dealing with WRULDs


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It may not be possible to prevent all cases of WRULDs, because workers respond

differently to the risks. Anyone with aWRULDneeds to be helped to prevent it getting

worse. Encourage workers to report any signs and symptoms early before they become

too serious, and seek medical help if necessary.

People with WRULDs usually completely recover if the problem is recognised early and

treated appropriately. The approach in most cases is for the affected person to rest

their arm/hand to reduce inflammation. Physiotherapy may help. If you find that a task

is causing or contributing to aWRULD,you should stop the worker from doing that

task.

If a worker has been off work suffering from aWRULD,the timing of their return

depends on medical advice. But it is possible to return before all the symptoms havecleared up totally. When someone returns to work it is preferable for them to carry out

light duties or reduced hours to start with.

So remember:

things can be done to prevent or minimise WRULDs;

preventative measures are cost-effective;

you cannot prevent all WRULDs, so early reporting of symptoms,

proper treatment and suitable rehabilitation is essential.

2.0 Display screen equipment

According to the Health andSafety(Display Screen Equipment) Regulations 1992,

Annex B, the main ill-health effects associated with using display screen equipment

are:

Upper Limb Pains and

Discomfort

A range of conditions of the arm, hand and

shoulder areas linked to work activities are now

described as work related upper limb disorders.

These range from temporary fatigue or soreness

in the limb to chronic soft tissue disorders like

peritendinitis or carpal tunnel syndrome. Some

keyboard operators have suffered from

occupational cramp.
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The contribution to the onset of any disorder of

individual risk factors is not clear. It is likely that

a combination of factors are concerned.

Prolonged static posture of the back, neck and

head are known to cause musculoskeletal

problems. Awkward positioning of the hands and

wrist are further likely factors. Outbreaks of soft

tissue disorders among keyboard workers have

often been associated with high workloads

combined with tight deadlines. This variety of

factors contributing to display screen work risk

requires a risk reduction strategy which

embraces proper equipment, furniture, training,

job design and work planning.

Eye and Eyesight

Effects

Medical evidence shows that using display screen

equipment is not associated with damage to eyes

or eyesight; nor does it make existing defects

worse. But some workers may experience

temporary visual fatigue, leading to a range ofsymptoms such as impaired visual performance,

red or sore eyes and headaches, or adoption of

awkward posture which can cause further

discomfort to limbs. These may be caused by:

Staying in the same position and

concentrating for a long time

Poor positioning of the display screen

equipment

Poor legibility of the screen or source

documents

Poor lighting, including glare and

reflections

A drifting, flickering or jittering image on

the screen

Like other visually demanding tasks, VDU workdoes not cause eye damage but it may make


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workers with pre-existing vision defects more

aware of them. Such uncorrected defects can

make work with display screen more tiring or

stressful than would otherwise be the case.

Fatigue andStress Many symptoms described by display screen

workers reflect stresses arising from their task.

They may be secondary to upper limb or visual

problems but they are more likely to be caused

by poor job design or work organisation,

particularly lack of sufficient control of the work

by the user, under-utilisation of skills, high-speed

repetitive working or social isolation. All these

have been linked withstressin display screen

work, although clearly they are not unique to it;

but attributing individual symptoms to particular

aspects of a job or workplace can be difficult.

The risks of display screen workers experiencing

physical fatigue andstresscan be minimised,

however, by following good practice techniques:

such as - careful design, selection and disposition

of display screen equipment, good design of the

users workplace, environment and task, training

, consultation and involvement of the user.

The regulations also refers to other risks to ill-health:

Epilepsy Display screen equipment has not been known toinduce epileptic seizures. People who suffer from

very rare (1 in 10 000 population) photosensitive

epilepsy who react adversely to flickering lights

and patterns also find they can safely work with

display screens. People with epilepsy who are

concerned about display screen work can seek

further advice from local offices of the

Employment Medical Advisory Service.

Facial dermatitis Some display screen users have reported facial
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skin complaints such as occasional itching or

reddened skin on the face and or neck. These

complaints are relatively rare and the limited

evidence available suggests they may be

associated with environmental factors, such as

low relative humidity or static electricity near the

display screen equipment.

Electro magnetic

radiation

Anxiety about radiation emissions from display

screen equipment and possible effects on

pregnant women has been widespread. However,

there is substantial evidence that these concerns

are unfounded. TheHealth and Safety Executive

has consulted the National radiological Protection

Board, which has the statutory function of

providing information and advice on all radiation

matters to Government Departments, and the

advice is summarised as:

The levels of ionising and non-ionising

electromagnetic radiation which are likely to be

generated by display screen equipment are wellbelow those set out in international

recommendations for limiting risk to human

health created by such emissions and the

National Radiological Protection Board does not

consider such levels to pose a significant risk to

health. No special protective measures are

therefore needed to protect the health of people

from this radiation.

Effects on pregnant

women

There has been considerable public concern

about reports of higher levels of miscarriage and

birth defects among some groups of visual

display unit (VDU) workers in particular due to

electromagnetic radiation. Many scientific studies

have been carried out, but taken as a whole their

results do not show any link between

miscarriages or birth defects and working with

VDUs.
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In light of the scientific evidence pregnant

women do not need to stop work with VDUs.

However, to avoid problems caused bystress

and anxiety, women who are pregnant or

planning children and worried about their

concerns should be given the opportunity to

discuss their concerns with someone adequately

informed of current authoritative scientific

information and advice.

2.1 Display Screen Equipment - Assessment

Riskassessment of Display Screen Equipment is a legal requirement so as to identify

and control risks and hazards that may be faced by the user or operator.

The risk assessment must consider the following;

Equipment Display Screen:

The characteristics on the screen shall be well defined and clearly formed, of adequatesize and with adequate spacing between the characters and lines.

The image on the screen should be stable, with no flickering or other forms of

instability.

The brightness and the contrast between the characters and the background shall be

easily adjustable by the operator or user, and also be easily adjustable to ambient

conditions.

The screen must swivel and tilt easily and freely to suit the needs of the operator or

user.

It shall be possible to use a separate base for the screen or an adjustable table.

The screen shall be free of reflective glare and reflections liable to cause discomfort to

the operator or user.

Equipment Keyboard

The keyboard shall be tiltable and separate from the screen so as to allow the operator

or user to find a comfortable working position avoiding fatigue in the arms or hands.
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The space in front of the keyboard shall be sufficient to provide support for the hands

and arms of the operator or user.

The keyboard shall have a matt surface to avoid reflective glare.

The arrangements of the keyboard and the characteristics of the keys shall be such asto facilitate the use of the keyboard.

The symbols on the keys shall be adequately contrasted and legible from the design

working position.

Equipment Work Desk or Work Surface

The work desk or work surface shall have a sufficiently large, low reflectance surface

and allow a flexible arrangements of the screen, keyboard, documents and relatedequipment.

The document holder shall be stable and adjustable and shall be positioned so as to

minimise the need for uncomfortable head and eye movements.

There shall be adequate space for operators or users to find a comfortable position.

Work Chair

The work chair shall be stable and allow the operator or user easy freedom of

movement and a comfortable position.

The seat shall be adjustable and comfortable.

The seat back shall be adjustable in both height and tilt.

A footrest shall be made available to any operator or user who wishes one.

Environment Space Requirements

The workstation shall be dimensioned and designed so as to provide sufficient space for

the operator or user to change position and vary movements.

Environment Lighting

Any room lighting or task lighting provided shall ensure satisfactory lighting conditions

and an appropriate contrast between the screen and the background environment,

taking into account the type of wok and the vision requirements of the operator or

user.
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Possible disturbing glare and reflections on the screen or other equipment shall be

prevented by co-ordination workplace and workstation layout with the positioning and

technical characteristics of the artificial light sources.

Environment Reflections andGlare

Workstations shall be so designed that sources of light, such as windows and other

openings, transparent or translucid walls, and brightly coloured fixtures or walls cause

no direct glare and no distracting reflections on the screen.

Windows shall be fitted with a suitable system of adjustable covering to attenuate the

daylight that falls on the workstation.

EnvironmentNoise

Noiseemitted by equipment belonging to any workstation shall be taken into account

when a workstation is being equipped, with a view in particular to ensuring that

attention is not distracted and speech is not disturbed.

Environment Heat

Equipment belonging to any workstation shall not produce excess heat that could cause

discomfort to operators or users.

EnvironmentRadiation

All radiation with the exception of the visible part of the electromagnetic spectrum shall

be reduced to negligible levels from the point of view of the protection of the operators

or users health andsafety.

Environment Humidity

An adequate level of humidity shall be established and maintained.

Interface between computer and user/operator

Software must be suitable for the task.

Software must be easy to use and, where appropriate, adaptable to the level of

knowledge or experience of the operator or user, no quantitative or qualitativechecking facility may be used without the knowledge of the operators or user.
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Systems must provide feedback to operators or users on the performance of those

systems.

Systems must display information in a format and at a pace which are adapted to

operators or users.The principles of software ergonomics must be applied, in particular to human data

processing.

4.0 Analysis of DSE workstations.

Regulation2 of the Health andSafety(Display Screen Equipment) Regulations 1992

calls for - Analysis of workstations to assess and reduce risks.

The possible risks associated with using display screen equipment have been outline in

this unit already, however we will now discuss some of the other requirements that the

regulation calls for in regards to the risk assessment.

The guidance states that:

Individual workstations used by users, users employed by others (e.g. agency

temps) or operators will need to be analysed and risks assessed.

If employers require their employees to use workstations at home, these too will

need to be assessed

4.1 Suitable and Sufficient Risk Assessment

In order for the display screen equipment risk assessment to be deemed suitable and

sufficient it should adhere to the following four requisites:

1 Be systematic: including investigation of non-obvious causes of

problems. For example, poor posture may be a response to screen

reflections and glare, rather than poor furniture.

2 Be appropriate to the likely degree of risk. This will largely depend on

the duration, intensity or difficulty of the work undertaken, for

example the need for prolonged high concentration because of

particular performance requirements.

3 Be comprehensive, covering organisational, job, workplace and

individual factors.

4 Incorporate information provided by both employer an worker.
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What type of assessment

In the simplest and most obvious cases that can be easily repeated and explained at

any time an assessment need not be recorded. This might be the case, for example, if

no significant risks are indicated and no individual user or operator is identified as

being especially at risk.

Assessments of short term or temporary workstations may also not need to be

recorded, unless risks are significant.

However, in most cases assessments need to be recorded and kept readily accessible

to ensure continuity and accuracy of knowledge among those who may need to know

the results.

Shared Workstations

Where one workstation is used by more than one person it should be analysed and

assessed according to all who use it.

4.2 Who should do the assessments?

According to the Health andSafety(Display Screen Equipment) Regulations 1992,

those completing the risk assessments should be familiar with the regulations and have

the ability to:

A

Assess risks from the workstation and the kind of display

screen work being done, for example, from a checklist

completed by them or others. B Draw upon additional

sources of information on risk as appropriate. C Based upon

the assessment of risk, draw valid and reliable conclusions. D

Make a clear record of the assessment and communicate the

findings to those who need to take appropriate action. E

Recognise their own limitations as to assessment so that

further expertise can be called on if necessary. Assessment

can be made by health and safetypersonnel, or line

managers with, or trained for, the abilities mentioned above.

When to review the risk assessment
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Again, the regulations issue detailed advice and state that a display screen equipment

risk assessment should be reviewed when:

AA major change to software used.B A major change to the hardware (screen, keyboard, etc).

C A major change in workstation furniture.

DA substantial increase in the amount of time required to be spent using display

screen equipment.

E A substantial change in other task requirements (e.g. more speed or accuracy).

F If the workstation is relocated.

G If the lighting is significantly modified.

4.3 Guidance on Workstation Minimum Requirements

The regulations also give the following advice on suggested control measures:

Display Screen Choice of display screen should be considered in relation to other

elements of the work system, such as the type and amount of

information required for the task, and environmental factors. A

satisfactory display can be achieved by custom design for a specific

task or environment, or by appropriate adjustments to adapt the

display to suit changing requirements or environmental conditions.

Display stability Individual perceptions of screen flicker vary and a screen that is

flicker-free to 90% of users should be regarded as satisfying the

minimum requirement. A change to a different display can resolve

individual problems with flicker. Persistent display instabilities may

indicate basic design problems and assistance should be sought

from suppliers.

Brightness and

contrast

Negative or positive image polarity is acceptable, and each has

different advantages. With negative polarity flicker is less

perceptible, legibility is better for those with low acuity vision, and

characters may be perceived as larger than they are. With positive

polarity, reflections are less perceptible, edges appear sharper and

luminance balance is easier to achieve.

It is important for the brightness and contrast of the display to be

appropriate for ambient lighting conditions.


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Screen

adjustability

Adjustment mechanisms allow the screen to be tilted or swivelled to

avoid glare and reflections and enable the worker to maintain to a

natural and relaxed posture. They may be built into the screen,

form part of the workstation furniture or be provided by separate

screen support devices; they should be simple and easy to operate.

Screen height adjustment devices, although not essential, may be a

useful means of adjusting the screen to the correct height for the

worker.

Glareand

reflection

Screens are generally manufactured without highly reflective surface

finishes but in adverse lighting conditions, reflection and glare may

be a problem.

Keyboard Keyboard design should allow workers to locate and activate keysquickly, accurately and without discomfort. The choice of keyboard

will be dictated by the nature of the task and determined in relation

to other elements of the work system. Hand support may be

incorporated into the keyboard for support while keying or at rest

depending on what the worker finds comfortable, may be provided

in the form of a space between the keyboard and the front edge of

the desk, or may be given by a separate hand/wrist support

attached to the work surface.

Work desk or

work surface

Work surface dimensions may need to be larger than for

conventional non-screen office work, to take adequate account of:

The range of tasks performed

Position and use of hands for each task

Use and storage of working materials and equipment

Document holders are useful work and hard copy, particularly for

workers who have difficulty in refocusing. They should position

working documents at a height, visual plane, and where

appropriate, viewing distance similar to those of the screen; be of

low reflectance; be stable; and not reduce readability of source

documents.

Work chair The primary requirement here is that the work chair should allow

the user to achieve a comfortable position. Seat height adjustmentsshould accommodate the needs of users for tasks performed. The
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Schedule requires the seat height to be adjustable and the seat

back to be adjustable in height and tilt. Provided the chair design

meets these requirements and allows the user to achieve a

comfortable posture, it is not necessary for the height or tilt of the

seat back to be adjustable independently of the seat. Automatic

backrest adjustments are acceptable if they provide adequate back

support.

Footrests may be necessary where individual workers are unable to

rest their feet flat on the floor. Footrests should not be used when

they are not necessary as this can result in poor posture.

Environment:

Space

requirements

Prolonged sitting in a static position can be harmful. It is most

important that support surfaces for display screen and other

equipment and materials used at the workstation should allow

adequate clearance for postural changes. This means adequate

clearances for thighs, knees, lower legs and feet under the work

surface and between furniture components. The height of the work

surface should allow a comfortable position for the arms and wrists,

if a keyboard is used.

Environment:

Lighting,

reflections and

glare

Lighting should be appropriate for all the tasks performed at the

workstation, e.g. reading from the screen, keyboard work, reading

printed text, writing on paper etc. General lighting by artificial or

natural light, or a combination should illuminate the entire room

to an adequate standard. Any supplementary individual lighting

provided to cater for personal needs or a particular task should not

adversely affect visual conditions at nearby workstations.

High illuminance render screen characters less easy to see but

improve the ease of reading documents. Where a high illuminanceenvironment is preferred for this or other reasons, the use of

positive polarity screens (dark characters on a light background) has

advantages as these can be used comfortably at higher illuminance

than can negative polarity screens.

Problems which can lead to visual fatigue andstresscan arise for

example from unshielded bright lights or bright areas in the workers

field of view; from an imbalance between brightly and dimly lit parts

of the environment and from reflections on the screen or other parts
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of the workstation.

Measures to minimise these problems include: shielding, replacing

or repositioning sources of light; rearranging or moving work

surfaces, documents or all parts of workstations; modifying the

colour or reflectance of walls, ceilings, furnishings etc near the

workstation; altering the intensity of vertical to horizontal

illuminance; or a combination of these. Anti glare screen filters

should be considered as a last resort if other measures fail to solve

the problem.

Environment:

Noise

Noisefrom equipment such as printers at display screen

workstations should be kept to levels which do not impair

concentration or prevent normal conversation (unless the noise is

designed to attract attention). Noisecan be reduced by

replacement, sound-proofing or repositioning of the equipment;

sound insulating partitions between noisy equipment and the rest of

the workstation are an alternative.

Environment:

Heat and

humidity

Electronic equipment can be a source of dry heat that can modify

the thermal environment at the workstation. Ventilation and

humidity should be maintained at levels that prevent discomfort and

problems of sore eyes.

4.4 Daily Work Routine of Users:


give the following guidance with regards to the daily work routine of users:

In most tasks, natural breaks or pauses occur as a consequence of the inherent

organisation of the work. Whenever possible, jobs at display screens should be

designed to consist of a mix of screen based and non-screen-based work to

prevent fatigue and to vary visual and mental demands.

Where the display screen work involves intensive use of the keyboard, any

activity that would demand broadly similar use of the arms or hands should be

avoided during breaks. Breaks must allow the user to vary their posture.

Exercise routines, which include blinking, stretching and focusing eyes on distant

objects, can be helpful and could be covered in training programmes.

Some general advice on breaks is as follows:
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A Breaks should be taken before the onset of fatigue, not in order to recuperate

and when performance is at a maximum, before productivity reduces. The

timing of the break is more important than the length.

B Breaks or changes in work activity should be included in working time. They

should reduce the workload at the screen, i.e. should not result in a higher pace

or intensity of work on account of their introduction.

C Short, frequent breaks are more satisfactory than occasional, longer breaks:

e.g. 5-10 minute break after 50-60 minutes continuous screen and/or keyboard

work is likely to be better than a 15 minute break every 2 hours;

D If possible, breaks should be taken away from the screen;

E Informal breaks, that is time spent not viewing the screen (e.g. on other tasks),

appear from study evidence to be more effective in relieving visual fatigue thanformal rest breaks;

F Wherever practicable, users should be allowed some discretion as to how they

carry out tasks; individual control over the nature and pace of work allows

optimal distribution of effort over the working day.

5.0 Eye and Eye Sight Tests

There is no liable evidence that work with display screen equipment causes permanent

damage to eyes or eyesight, but it may make users with pre-existing vision defects

more aware of them.


gives employers a duty to ensure the provision of appropriate eye and eyesight tests

on request:

To their employees who are already users when the Regulations come into force.

And to any of their non-user employees who are about to become users.

'Appropriate Eye and Eyesight Test' in Great Britain are defined as:

"determining whether there is any and, if so, what defect of sight and of occurring,

remedying or relieving any such defect of an anatomical or physiological nature by

means of an optical appliance prescribed on the basis of the determination." - Opticians

Act 1989.
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The test includes a test of vision and an examination of the eye. For the purpose of the

Health andSafety(Display Screen Equipment) Regulations 1992, the test should take

account of the nature of the users work.

Display screen users are not obliged to have such tests performed but where they

choose to exercise their entitlement, employers should offer an examination by a

registered optician or a medical a registered medical practitioner with suitable

qualifications.

The regulations do not however, give employers any duty to offer eye and eyesight

tests to persons not in their employment. However, where somebody has been

recruited and is about to work with display screen equipment to the extent that they

will become a user the regulations become applicable.

5.1 Regularity of provision of eye and eyesight tests:

A As soon as practicable after display screen users have a made a request.

B For employees who are about to become users, and have made a request. In

such cases the test must be carried out before the employee becomes a user.

C For users at regular intervals thereafter to check the need for special

corrective appliances for display screen work, provided that they want the

tests. Employers should be guided by the clinical judgement of the

optometrist or doctor on the frequency of repeat testing. The frequency of

repeat testing needed will vary between individuals, according to factors such

as age. However, employers are not responsible for any correction for vision

defects or examinations for eye complaints that are not related to display

screen work that may become necessary within the period. These are the

responsibility of the individual concerned.

D Users experiencing visual difficulties which may reasonably be considered to be

related to the display screen work, for example visual symptoms such as

eyestrain or focusing difficulties.

5.2 Corrective Appliances

Special corrective appliances (normally spectacles) provided to meet the

requirements of the Regulations will be those appliances prescribed to correct vision

defects at the viewing distance or distances used to specifically for the display screen

work concerned. The provision of eye and eyesight tests and of special correctiveappliances is at the expense of the users employer. Users needing special corrective
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appliances may be prescribed a special pair of spectacles for display screen work.

Provision ofTrainingRegulation6, Provision ofTraining,is the regulation that deals

with employee training in regards to display screen equipment. (1) Where a person

a) is already a user on the date of coming into force of these regulations,

b) is an employee who does not habitually use display screen equipment as a

significant part of his normal work but is to become a user in the undertaking in which

he is already employed,

(2) Every employer shall ensure that each user at work in his undertaking is provided

with adequate health andsafetytraining whenever the organisation of any workstation

in that undertaking upon which he may be required to work is substantially modified.

In accordance with this regulation, employers should ensure that all users who make

use of their workstations or are required to use other workstations have been provided

with health andsafetytraining, in addition to the training received in order to do the

work itself. In practice, there may be considerable overlap between general training

requirements and specific health andsafetyones and they are best done together. The

purpose of the training is to increase the users competence to use the workstation

equipment safely and reduce the risk to their or anyone elses health. In considering

the extent of any training which will be necessary in a particular case, the employerneeds to make up any shortfalls between the users existing competence and that

necessary to use the equipment in a safe and healthy way. Any health andsafety

training should be aimed at reducing or minimising the three risk areas (which have

been outline in detail in this module): Upper Limb Pains and Discomfort Eye and

Eyesight Effects Fatigue andStressIn order to achieve this the following aspects are

suggested to be covered n any such training schedule: A The users role in correct and

timely detection and recognition of hazards and risks. B A simple explanation off the

causes of risk and the mechanisms by which harm may be brought about, for example,poor posture leading to static loading on the musculoskeletal system and eventual

fatigue and pain. C User initiated actions and procedures that will bring risks under

control and to acceptable levels. following:

The desirability of comfortable posture and the importance of postural change.

The use of adjustment mechanisms on equipment, particularly furniture, so thatstress

and fatigue can be minimised.
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The use and arrangement of workstation components to facilitate good posture,

prevent over-reaching and avoid glare and reflections.

The need for regular cleaning (or inspection) of screens and other equipment and

maintenance.

The need to take advantage of breaks and changes of activity.

D

Organisational arrangements by which symptoms or problems with the workstation can

be communicated to management.

E

Information on the Health andSafety(Display Screen Equipment) Regulations 1992.

F

The users contribution to assessments.

5.3 Provision of Information

Along with health andsafetytraining the Health andSafety(Display Screen

Equipment) Regulations 1992 call for the provision of information (regulation 7).

1. Every employer shall ensure that operators and users at work in his undertaking

are provided with adequate information about

a. all aspects of health andsafetyrelating to their workstation, and

b. such measures taken by him in compliance with his duties under regulations 2(analysis of workstation) and 3 (requirements for workstations) as relate to them and

their work.

2. Every employer shall ensure that users at work in his undertaking are provided with

adequate information about such measures taken by him in compliance with his duties

under regulation 4 (daily work routine of users) and 6 (provision of training) as relate

to them and their work.

3. Every employer shall ensure that users employed by him are provided with adequate

information about such measures taken by him in compliance with his duties under
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regulation 5 (eye and eyesight) and 6 (provision of training) as they relate to them and

their work.

There is a general duty on employers under the Management of Health andSafetyat

Work Regulations 1999 for employers to provide information on risks to health and

safetyto all their own employees as well as to employers of other employees on site,

to visiting employees, and to the self employed.

To satisfy the criteria laid down above, then the following information should be

provided:

Information on:

Risks from

DSE and

workstations

Risk

assessment

and

measures

to reduce

the risks

Breaks

and

activity

changes

Eye and

eyesight

tests

Initial

training

Training

when

workstation

modified

Does

employer

have to

provide

information

to display

screen

workers

who are:

Users

employed

by the

undertaking

Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes

Users

employed

by other

employer

Yes Yes Yes No No Yes

Operators

in the

undertaking

Yes Yes No No No No
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The information provided should, among other things, include reminders of the

measures taken to reduce risks such as the system for reporting problems, the

availability of adjustable window covering and furniture etc.

6.0 Manual handling

The Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992 seek to prevent injuy not only to the

back but to any part of the body. Take account of any external physical properties of

loads which might either affect grip or cause direct injury.

Information regarding injury is given in the regulations as:

Injury does not include injury caused by any toxic or corrosive substance which

Has leaked or spilled from a load

Is present on the surface of a load but has not leaked or spilled from it

Is a constituent part of a load

Another important definition is as follows:

Load A load must be a discrete movable object. This includes, for

example a human patient receiving medical attention or an animal

undergoing veterinary treatment, and material supported on a

shovel or a fork.

An implement, such as a chainsaw, fire hoses, breathing apparatus

etc. is not considered to constitute a load while in use for its

intended purpose.

6.1 Manual Handling Injuries

More than a third of all over-three-day injuries reported each year toHSEand local

authorities are caused by manual handling - the transporting or supporting of loads by

hand or by bodily force. The pie chart shows the pattern for over-three-day injuries

reported in 2001/02:
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The most recent survey of self-reported work-related illness estimated that in 2001/02,

1.1 million people in Great Britain suffered from musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs)

caused or made worse by their current or past work. An estimated 12.3 million working

days were lost due to these work-related MSDs. On average each sufferer took about

20 days off in that 12-month period. Manual handling injuries can occur wherever

people are at work - on farms and building sites, in factories, offices, warehouses,

hospitals, banks, laboratories, and while making deliveries. Heavy manual labour,

awkward postures, manual materials handling, and previous or existing injury are all

risk factors implicated in the development of MSDs.

The following information on injuries is taken from the Manual handling ACOP and

represent figures as at 1996/1997:

The following shows: Types of injury caused by handling accidents:


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6.1 Manual Handling Injuries Cont.

The following shows: Sites of injuries caused by handling:


The following shows: Sites of injuries caused by handling:


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When it comes to risk assessment and the implementation of control measures, the regulations

establish a clear hierarchy of control that is:

A Avoid hazardous manual handling operations so far as is reasonably

practicable. This may be done by redesigning the task to avoid

moving the load or by automating or mechanising the process.

B Make a suitable and sufficient assessment of any hazardous manual

handling operations that cannot be avoided.

C Reduce the risk of injury from those operations so far as is reasonably

practicable. Particular consideration should be given to the provision

of mechanical assistance. Where this is not reasonably practicable

then other improvements to the task, the load and the working

environment should be explored.


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The following flow chart gives a better understanding of the risk assessment process as

defined by the Manual Handling Operation Regulations:


The following shows: Percentage of injuries caused by handling:


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7.0 Assessment of Risk


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Where manual handling operations cannot be avoided,Regulation4 of the Manual

Handling Operation regulations calls for a suitable and sufficient risk assessment to be

carried out.

The regulations specifies factors which the assessment should take into account, these

being:

Task

Individual Capability

Load

Working Environment

In most cases the employers should be able to carry out the assessment themselves or

delegate it to others in their organisation. A meaningful assessment can only be based

on a thorough and practical understanding of the type of manual handling tasks to be

performed, the loads to be handled and the working environment in which the tasks

will be carried out.

Areas of knowledge and expertise likely to be relevant to successful risk assessment of

manual handling operations, and individuals who may be able to make useful

contribution, include:

A The requirements of the regulations.

B The nature of the handling operations.

C A basic understanding of human capabilities.

D Identification of high risk activities.

E Practical steps to reduce risk.

In relation to the assessment of the four factors (task, individual, load, environment)

the regulations give further and more detailed advice as follows:

7.1 The TASK - making an assessment:

Is the load held or

manipulated at a

distance from the

trunk?

As the load is moved away from the trunk the general level of

stresson the lower back rises. Regardless of the handling

technique used, not keeping the load close to the body will

increase thestress. As a rough guide, holding a load at arms

length imposes about five times thestressexperienced when
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holding the same load very close to the trunk.

Also, the further away the load, the less it is to control. The

benefit of friction between the load and the workers garments in

helping to support or steady the load is reduced or lost, and it is

more difficult to counterbalance the load with the weight of the

trunk.

The importance of

posture

Poor posture during manual handling introduces the additional

risk of loss of control of the load and a sudden, unpredictable

increase in physical stresses. The risk of injury is increased if

the feet and hands are not well placed to transmit forces

efficiently between the floor and the load.

Does the task

involve twisting the

trunk?

Stresson the lower back is increased significantly if twisted

trunk postures are adopted. Still worse is to twist while

supporting the load.

Does the task

involve stooping?

Stooping can also increase thestresson the lower back. This

happens whether the handler stoops by bending the back or by

leaning forward with the back straight in each case the trunk

is thrown forward and its weight is added to the load being

handled.

Does the task

involve reaching

upwards?

Reaching upwards places additional stresses on the arms and

back. Controlof the load becomes more difficult and, because

the arms are extended, they are more prone to injury.

The effect of

combining risk

factors

Individual capability can be reduced substantially if twisting is

combined with stooping or stretching. Such combinations

should be avoided wherever possible, especially since their

effect on individual capability can be worse than the simple

addition f their individual effects might suggest.

Does the task

involve excessive

lifting or lowering

distances?

The distance through which a load is lifted or lowered can also

be important: large distances are considerably more demanding

physically than small ones. Moreover lifting and lowering

through a large distance is likely to necessitate a change of grip

part way through, further increasing the risk of injury. Lifts

beginning at floor level should be avoided where possible; where

unavoidable they should finish no higher than waist height.

Does the task

involve excessive

In general, if a load can safely be lifted and lowered, it can also

be carried without endangering the back. However, if a load is
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carrying distances? carried for an excessive distance, physical stresses are

prolonged, leading to fatigue and increased risk of injury. As a

rough guide, if a load is carried further than about 10m then the

physical demands of carrying the load will tend to predominate

over those of lifting and lowering and individual capability will be

reduced.

Does the task

involve excessive

pushing or pulling

of the load?

Like lifting, lowering and carrying, pushing or pulling a load can

harm the handler. The risk of injury is increased if pushing or

pulling is carried out with the hands much below knuckle height

or above shoulder height.

b10 ergonomic factors

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