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Reasons Why Computer Health and Safety Is Important
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Posted On :
Jan-12-2012
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Article Word Count :
741
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Knowing about computer health and safety is essential so that potential injuries or strains can be avoided. Regular assessments need to be carried out by those who use a computer.
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In 1992 a set of guidelines on computer health and safety were formulated in the UK so that computer workers could spot possible risks linked to their computers. In the office workplace it is essential that all workers have a sound knowledge of computer health and safety. Computers and their equipment need to be used appropriately over time, otherwise health issues such as repetitive strain injury may result in employees being absent from work. If workers have sufficient knowledge of computer health and safety however, they will know how to make efficient use of their computer and work environment and thus prevent any potential injuries occurring.
Outlined below are a series of computer health and safety assessments that need to be carried out by those who sit at a desk and/or use a computer. If these assessments are carried out, potential risks can be highlighted and thus resolved.
1. Positioning of the chair
In every workplace, the chairs supplied should be comfortable whilst encouraging proper posture. Computer health and safety guidelines state that chairs should support the lower back. It should also be noted that the chair must be between 19 and 27 inches from the monitor.
2. Layout of the desk
A working area should promote efficient working by being comfortable and stress-free. The worker's attention must not be diverted, so any potential distraction should be removed.
3. Windows and lighting
The computer should not be situated in places where windows and lighting will affect screen visibility; any kind of glare on the screen will make it harder to work effectively. Yet if glare cannot be removed, computer health and safety rules suggest the purchase of screen filters. With knowledge of computer health and safety, each worker can check their screen regularly for brightness levels. If they feel their work is being affected and/or their eyes are being strained then they can inform their employer.
4. The screen monitor
To ensure full computer health and safety the worker's screen should always be positioned at eye level. If the screen is above eye level, then neck and eye muscles will be strained. Computer health and safety rules also mention that the screen should be wiped on a regular basis; screen visibility will be seriously affected by build up of dirt or smears on the screen. Workers should also take regular breaks from looking at the screen to avoid straining their eyes.
5. The keyboard
In order to follow computer health and safety instructions, the keyboard should be positioned above elbow level. The keyboard should also be used more often than the mouse. Many workers use only the wrist to move the mouse when it should be moved by the whole of the arm.
6. Typing position
Several computer users are uninformed on the fact that the wrong typing position can lead to injuries to the lower arm. Computer health and safety rules should be examined in regards to how the arms, wrists, hands and fingers should be positioned when typing.
7. Networks
Electromagnetic field radiation negatively affects computer health and safety. This can be avoided by using wired networks as opposed to wi-fi or wireless networks.
8. Portable devices
Although many workplaces provide static computers, many workers fetch in portable devices like laptops. Many are unaware that the same computer health and safety guidelines apply to these portable devices as much as they do to static devices (e.g. the worker with the portable device should also ensure that they have good posture and positioning like the worker with the static device.)
Portable devices also have their own set of computer health and safety regulations, as in how they are carried between each place.
9. Computer health and safety exercises
There are various computer health and safety exercises you can do whilst at the workplace. Gentle exercises such as these don't take up long periods of time and can be done at the desk without any extra equipment. If the worker carries out these exercises on a regular basis then stress and strains on eye, neck, back or arm muscles can be avoided or improved.
Consequently employers and employees can make beneficial use of computer health and safety assessments. If workers are more comfortable and can avoid potential injuries, then they will be able to generate more business for their employer.
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Article Source :
http://www.articleseen.com/Article_Reasons Why Computer Health and Safety Is Important_133038.aspx
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Author Resource :
Computer training from iHASCO is interactive, simple to use and realistically priced. They have provided computer health and safety training programmes, videos and DVDs since 1993. Visit their website now to view their full range of training programmes.
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Keywords :
Computer health and safety, computer safety, computer health and safety training, computer safety training, computer health a,
Category :
Health and Fitness
:
Health and Fitness
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