Health and safety

Health and safety in the workplace is the responsibility of people working or visiting there

The 2 parts to the legislation are the Health and Safety at work act and the general issues of using computers in the workplace

The Health and Safety (Display screen equipment) regulations are the main laws covering the use of computer equipment

The objectives of the act are...

• Securing the health, safety and welfare of employees and visitors to the workplace
• Protecting the people from risks
• Keeping/using highly flammable or dangerous substances safe

Employers regulations...

• Must have tiltable screens
• Have computers with anti-glare screen filters
• Provide adjustable chairs
• Accomodate foot supports
• Check that the lighting is suitable
• Ensure the work areas are not cramped
• Plan often breaks for employees

Eye strain symptoms...

• Headache
• Blurring/double vision
• Nausea
• Fatigue
• Burning/itching eyes

Eye strain solutions...

• Use monitors that don't flicker
• Window blinds to prevent direct sunlight on the screens
• Use screen filters
• Take regular breaks
• Have regular eye tests

To help avoid back and neck ache...

• Use a fully adjustable chair
• Use a foot rest
• Use an adjustable monitor
• Take regular breaks
• Don't slouch

RSI (repetitive strain injury)

RSI is damage to the fingers, wrists etc due to repeated movement over a long period of time. 

It is caused by typing for a long amount of time, putting too much force on your fingers when typing, using a poorly designed keyboard or sitting in an unnatural position.

Symptoms...

• Aching
• Pain in wrists after rest
• weakness
• swelling
• numbness

Solutions

• Make sure chair is at correct height
• Use wrist rests for support

RSI (repetitive strain injury)

RSI is damage to the fingers, wrists etc due to repeated movement over a long period of time. 

It is caused by typing for a long amount of time, putting too much force on your fingers when typing, using a poorly designed keyboard or sitting in an unnatural position.

Symptoms...

• Aching
• Pain in wrists after rest
• weakness
• swelling
• numbness

Solutions

• Make sure chair is at correct height
• Use wrist rests for support

RSI (repetitive strain injury)

RSI is damage to the fingers, wrists etc due to repeated movement over a long period of time. 

It is caused by typing for a long amount of time, putting too much force on your fingers when typing, using a poorly designed keyboard or sitting in an unnatural position.

Symptoms...

• Aching
• Pain in wrists after rest
• weakness
• swelling
• numbness

Solutions

• Make sure chair is at correct height
• Use wrist rests for support
• Take a break every hour

Safety guidelines...

• No trailing wires
• Food/drink kept away from machines
• Electrical sockets not overloaded
• Suitable heating and ventilation
• Suitable lighting
• Work desks should be strong enough to support weight of computers
• Bags/obstacles stored out of the way
• Electrical equipment regularly tested
• Fire exits should be clear
• Fire extinguishers available
• Staff should know the safety regulations