Computer Eyestrain

Computer Eyestrain

sore eyes Office workers have their share of work-related hazards. PC users may often complain of eye strain, pain, stiffness in their backs and shoulders, and stress. These complaints can be a result of:

Highlights

Safe Computing Tips

User Friendly Work Station

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

	Using a PC for long periods of time.
	Improper positioning of the PC.
	Poor lighting.
	Poor posture.
	Stiff deadlines.

PC users can protect themselves from physical problems that go with using them with the Self-Care Tips listed in the next column.

Self-Care Tips

To prevent eyestrain:

	Reduce glare.
	Keep the PC away from you and at right angles to a window.
	Turn off or shield overhead lights.
	Wear a visor to block overhead lights if necessary.
	Place your paperwork close enough so that you don't have to keep refocusing when switching from the screen to the paper.
	Use a paper document holder placed at the same height as the PC screen.
	Place the screen in such a manner that your line of sight is 10 to 15 degrees (about one-third of a 45-degree angle) below the horizontal position.
	Dust off the screen often.
	Blink often to keep your eyes from getting dry.
	Tell your eye specialist that you use a PC.
	Glasses and contacts worn for other activities may not be good for work on a PC.
	If the image on the PC screen is blurred, dull, or flickers, have it serviced right away.
	Try keeping the PC screen at least two feet away from your eyes.

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