Ergonomics &Health and Safety
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Monitors
Input Devices
Posture
Computers and Stress
Health & Safety Laws
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Posture
• You should have an adjustable chair and monitor to get into the best position
• Your forearms should be roughly horizontal
• Your eyes should be level with the top of the screen
Make sure you are as comfortable as possible when using a computer:
Monitors
• Keep it clean from dirt and fingerprints
• Position the monitor to avoid glare from lights or windows
• Use the Contrast and Brightness controls
• Ensure that there is enough ambient light in the room
Make the screen as easy to read as possible:
Input Devices
• Tilt the keyboard with the feet at the back, allowing you to keep your arms straight
• Rest your hands and arms when not typing or using a mouse
• If possible use ergonomically designed keyboards and mice
• Again - take frequent, regular breaks
Reduce the risks of Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI):
Computers and Stress
• Ease of use – programs should be self explanatory, reliable and consistent with other programs as much as possible.
• Sufficient Training – users should be left feeling confident, not confused!
• Appropriateness to task – are you using the best type of program to do each piece of work?
Software should be designed with end-users in mind!
These are all fairly obvious points to consider, but they can all be too easily overlooked – creating stress!
Health & Safety Laws
• Analyse workstations and their surroundings; if found to be unsafe they need to be made safe.
• Ensure workstations meet minimum ergonomic requirements.
• Plan work for users, allowing breaks or variations in their work so they are not doing computer-related tasks all day.
• Provide free eye tests and possibly glasses to any worker that regularly uses computer screens.
• Provide health and safety training and information on reducing risks.
The Health & Safety (Display Screen Equipment) Regulations 1992: