Sedentary work and its effects.
WHAT IT PRODUCES
Eye strain Neck, shoulder and back problems Wrist and hand problems Effects of prolonged sitting Mental fatigue from sustained concentration
WHAT TO ESTABLISH ABOUT SETUP
Screen at approximately eye level Screen at a comfortable distance Chair supporting the lower back Feet supported Arms supported when typing Adequate lighting without glare on the screen
WHY SCREEN HEIGHT
Looking down for long periods causes neck problems.
WHAT TO DO ABOUT LAPTOPS
Raise the screen and use a separate keyboard, where the work is sustained.
WHY
Laptop design places the screen and keyboard in conflicting positions.
WHAT TO ENCOURAGE
Regular breaks from the screen Changing posture Standing and moving
HOW OFTEN
Short breaks frequently, rather than long ones occasionally.
WHAT TO DO ABOUT EYES
Look at something distant periodically.
WHY
Sustained near focus causes strain.
WHAT TO ESTABLISH
That breaks are acceptable and expected.
WHY
People do not take them where they feel observed.
WHAT TO PROVIDE
Equipment appropriate to the work.
WHY IT IS WORTH THE COST
Injuries from poor setup are lasting and they cause absence.
WHAT TO ASK PEOPLE
Whether anything causes discomfort.
WHAT TO ACT ON
Discomfort reported, before it becomes injury.
WHY
Early adjustment prevents lasting problems.
WHAT TO ESTABLISH FOR REMOTE WORKERS
That their setup is adequate.
WHY
Home working frequently means working at unsuitable furniture for long periods.
