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As the amount of technology
used in today’s world increases, so do the
concerns for health and safety. Numerous persons
who utilize computers on a regular basis complain
of difficulties with their vision. Scientific
research conducted by experts in the field indicate
that, though it is common for discomfort and fatigue
for the eyes, there is no permanent damage from using
computers on a regular basis. There was one
study, completed in Japan in 2004, which did however,
find an increased risk for myopic (nearsighted) individuals
who use computers on a regular basis and an incidence
of Glaucoma.
NIOSH
provides estimated statistics, which indicate more
than sixty million Americans alone, suffer from eye
related problems from the use of computers. The
majority of research and complaints by those who
use computers on a regular long-term basis involves
eyestrain and headaches. These issues are not
the result of the monitor or computer itself, but
instead result from a combination of factors. In
regards to eyestrain, there are some optometrists
who believe it can be of a repetitive nature, similar
to carpal tunnel syndrome. Regardless
of the fact that there is little to no evidence of
permanent eye damage being caused by the computer,
it is important for the users to reduce the amount
of strain and fatigue.
There are many different possible-contributing factors
to eye problems related to computer use. They
include:
- Using bifocals which are set for a typical reading
distance of sixteen inches, and where computer
monitors are usually further away than sixteen
inches.
- The set distance of the computer monitor causing
the worker to focus on one specific distance for
a long period of time.
- The fact that information on a computer monitor
is brightest in the middle then fades out, as it
gets closer to the edge. This causes the
eyes to overwork to compensate and can result in
strain to the eyes.
- Prolonged use of the computer without adequate
breaks, causing increased stress and strain to
the eyes.
- Inadequate or improper placement and/or use of
lighting. (glares too much or is too dark).
- Other eye problems. (allergies, dry eyes, unaligned
eye muscles, etc.)
There are simple steps one can take to limit the
amount of eye fatigue or strain you may experience
when working at a computer for long periods of time,
including:
- Moving the monitor at least twenty inches from
your eyes and keeping it at eye level.
- Taking twenty-second “eye breaks” and
focusing on objects far away during the breaks. Try
to incorporate these breaks every thirty minutes
of work time.
- Use of document holders to keep your eyes from
constantly having to refocus on different media
with different lighting.
- Reduce the glare on the screen. (eliminate or
reducing overhead or direct light, invest in a
LCD Glare filter)
- Use Glare Guard to reduce glare.
- Rob rotation, such as switching tasks every 30-60
minutes in order to reduce strain on eyes and increase
overall productivity by being active.
Eyestrain can be prevented or greatly reduced by
implementing a few of the changes listed above, increasing
the overall health and productivity of the workplace. If
your office has yet to make such positive chances,
talk to the health and safety director, as it can
significantly reduce workers compensation and insurance
claims while creating a healthier, happier workplace!
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