COMPUTERS AND THE INDIVIDUAL

THIS LESSON INCLUDES Ergonomic Issues Health Issues

ERGONOMICS Ergonomics is the study of the physical relationship between people and their tools – such as computers. Extended or improper computer use may result in a number of ailments, such as: Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Repetitive Stress Injuries Eye Strain Muscle Strain Back Strain

CARPAL TUNNEL SYNDROME REPETITIVE STRESS INJURIES Repetitive stress injuries (RSIs) result from using the body continuously in ways it was not designed to work. RSIs appeared when people spend a lot of time using the computer keyboard and mouse. CARPAL TUNNEL SYNDROME Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common type of repetitive stress injury, which may be caused by extended or improper use of a computer keyboard.

TO AVOID REPETITIVE STRESS INJURIES: USE ERGONOMICALLY CORRECT FURNITURE: ERGONOMIC CHAIR Height adjustable Lower-back support Arm rests ERGONOMIC KEYBOARD

TO AVOID CARPAL TUNNEL SYNDROME: FOLLOW PROPER ERGONOMIC TECHNIQUES! Feet on the floor Knees under the desk Butts Back! Backs Up! Elbows parallel to the floor Wrists Off the Desk Hands Curved Fingers on the Home Row Fingers Curved Type with the Fingertips

EYESTRAIN Many computer users find their vision deteriorating after a while. This is caused by using the PC too long, poor positioning, or other factors.

TO AVOID EYESTRAIN: USE A MONITOR THAT Place The Monitor From 2 To 2 ½ Feet Away Avoid Staring At The Screen Too Long Avoid Glare Keep The Screen Clean Adjust the monitor to eye level or slightly lower Good lighting USE A MONITOR THAT Holds A Steady Image Without Flickering Easy to read

TO REDUCE STRESS AND STRAIN Good Lighting Use Proper Ergonomic Technique Take Frequent Breaks Away From The Computer