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: