Health,+Safety,+Efficiency,+and+Ergonomics

Computers are probably the most ubiquitous type of machine in today's work and learning environments. Although they generally are clean, quiet, and safe to use, improper interaction with and positioning of the equipment can lead to health problems such as eyestrain, repetitive stress syndrome, and backache.

Before designing the safest and most effective ergonomic environment, determine the type of computer, purpose, and normal usage times. If different people use the computer for a few minutes each, ergonomic design may not be the first priority. However, for workstations where individuals may spend an hour or more at a time, a few sensible tips can help achieve an ergonomically proper environment, such as proper positioning of the person and equipment, the use of document holders, and regular breaks. Users should also look away occasionally from the screen and blink several times to refresh their eyes when staring at a computer monitor for more than 15 minutes (Hedge, 2007). Several alternatives to standard input devices and software can ease strain and offer ergonomic alternatives. These include digital pens, voice-recognition software, keyboard control pedals, joysticks, touchpads, voice-activated mice, eye-tracking systems, specially designed keyboards, wrist rests, and other products. Be sure to choose a research-based product that is comfortable for long periods of use.

Table 4 shows how various environmental aspects can be organized to create the right ergonomic conditions for a safer learning and work environment.
 * Table 4. Ergonomic Recommendations for Computer Use **

· Protect eyes against moisture loss || ·  Take adequate breaks regularly · Adjust the monitor’s contrast and brightness · Focus regularly on a distant object · Use an antiglare screen · Adjust the screen height so the top is at eye level · Position the screen in a downward viewing angle || · Type with your wrists floating above the keyboard · Keep your elbows relaxed · Keep the mouse at the same height as the keyboard || · Keep your head and torso in line with your head, bent forward slightly, facing towards the front and balanced · Ensure your shoulders are at ease with your upper arms, hanging normally to the side · Ensure your elbows are close to the body and bent between 90 and 110 degrees · Support your feet with a footrest or by relaxing them on the floor · While leaning back or sitting in a vertical position, support your back fully with a firm hold on the lumbosacral area · Ensure the seat is well padded to support your hips and thighs <span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Symbol; mso-list: Ignore; msobidifontfamily: Symbol; msofareastfontfamily: Symbol; msolist: Ignore;">· Ensure your knees and hips are almost the same height, with your feet slightly forward ||
 * ** Environment ** || ** Health and Safety Considerations ** || ** Ergonomic Recommendations ** ||
 * VDU (visual display unit) || <span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Symbol; mso-list: Ignore; msobidifontfamily: Symbol; msofareastfontfamily: Symbol; msolist: Ignore;">· Avoid discomfort caused by reflective glare and eyestrain
 * Keyboards || <span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Symbol; mso-list: Ignore; msobidifontfamily: Symbol; msofareastfontfamily: Symbol; msolist: Ignore;">· Prevent wrist strain, which can develop into RSI (repetitive strain injury) || <span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Symbol; mso-list: Ignore; msobidifontfamily: Symbol; msofareastfontfamily: Symbol; msolist: Ignore;">·  Use a wrist rest
 * Seating || <span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Symbol; mso-list: Ignore; msobidifontfamily: Symbol; msofareastfontfamily: Symbol; msolist: Ignore;">· Neutral body position || <span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Symbol; mso-list: Ignore; msobidifontfamily: Symbol; msofareastfontfamily: Symbol; msolist: Ignore;">·  Keep your hands, wrists, and forearms in a row, straight, and almost parallel to the floor