Computer Safety

Computer monitors have been wrongly blamed for a number of health problems. A very small number of people actually suffer ill health as a result of the monitors themselves; it's the way in which they are used that can cause a problem. So many problems can be avoided by good workplace and job design.

Sitting in one position for long periods of time can cause aches and pains and when using a computer you may suffer from pains in your hands, wrists, arms, neck, shoulders or back. A medical name for this whole group of conditions is 'upper limb disorders' or as we would call it (Repetitive strain injury) usually these disorders do not last, but in a few cases they may become persistent or even disabling.

If you suffer from aches and pains at work you should notify your supervisor or manager. Recognising computer safety and creating a good workplace design can avoid most problems. You should be able to work comfortably and consider good working practices such as taking short frequent breaks and stretching your hands, arms and legs. Prevention is easiest if action is taken early, before the problem has become serious.

Headaches may result from the use of computer monitors, things like screen glare, stress from the pace of work, poor image quality, a need for different spectacles, reading the screen for long periods without a break, poor posture or a combination of these. Many of these things can easily be put right once the cause of the problem has been found.

Some people worry about radiation levels coming from monitors, however the levels of radiation emitted is well below the safe levels set out in international recommendations. Employers therefore do not need to check radiation levels. Another question is often asked about the affect on your eyesight, extensive research has found no evidence that computer monitors can cause permanent damage to your eyes, but long periods of time spend in front of your monitor can lead to tired eyes and feeling slight discomfort. If you are having problems with your eyesight you and your employer can help by ensuring your monitor is well positioned and properly adjusted, and that the workplace lighting is suitable. Ask for an eye test if you still think there are problems.

It's not just computer monitors that need attention, your mouse, tracker ball or pointing device can give rise to aches and pains in the fingers, hands, wrists, arms or shoulders. This can also happen with a keyboard, but mouse work concentrates activity on one hand and arm (and one or two fingers), and this may make problems more likely. Take frequent breaks even short pauses to relax your arm can help, as can time using just the keyboard or doing other non computer work. If you place the mouse close to you it can be used with a relaxed arm and straight wrist. It helps if you support your arm on the desk or on your chair arm. If you are still struggling you could try a different shaped mouse or another device such as a trackball.

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Disclaimer: Business Health & Safety UK have provided this advice on the basis that the content and advice contained within these documents is to the best of our knowledge accurate at the time of publication. The Business Safety Company does not accept any liability for the accuracy of the information provided in the above' and website pages.