If you use visual display units (VDUs) at work, you could be entitled to VDU glasses and health checks. It's fine to work with computers, laptops and display screen equipment on a regular basis so long as you look after your wellbeing.
Here's how to work with VDUs safely:
Book an eye test
The Health and Safety (Display Screen Equipment) Regulations 1992 state that every employee should be provided with an eye examination, funded by their employer. If glasses are needed solely for VDU use, the employer is also entitled to pay, so it's well worth booking an appointment with your optometrist. Make use of the eye care vouchers provided by your company and choose a suitable pair of spectacles.
Take regular breaks
HSE (the national independent watchdog for work-related health, safety and illness) states that VDUs can cause tired eyes when used for long periods of time. Therefore, it's important to take short, but frequent breaks to relax the muscles in your eyes. Step away from your computer screen regularly and focus your attention on something else for a while. Wear glasses to prevent headaches and look up from your screen whenever you've got a few minutes to spare.
Create a safe workspace
To reduce the risk of aches and pains it's important to create a safe and comfortable workstation. Adjust your chair making sure your forearms are roughly horizontal and your eyes are level with the top of your VDU. If you have a bend in your neck, you've probably got your computer screen or device positioned too low or too high. Always clear space under your desk so you can move around freely and adjust the screen if there's a glare. Don't be afraid to ask your office manager for a foot rest, or decide to use a back support.
Avoid stress
People who work with VDUs often become stressed if their systems fail or their computer crashes – but this is not helpful. If you experience technical issues try to remain calm and consider your mental health. Simply ask for assistance or try to figure out the problem yourself in a calm, organised manner. If you're unconfident using particular programs ask for further training or research how-to guides in your own time. You'll feel a lot better about using VDUs if you understand the way they work.
Limit the amount of time you use a mouse
If you use a mouse or keyboard, try to take regular breaks and complete a few simple hand exercises. This will reduce the risk of repetitive strain disorder and will allow your arm muscles to relax for a while. Rest your arms on the desk while working and make sure your mouse is close to your body, so you don't have to strain to reach it.
More often than not health problems are caused by the way we used VDUs, rather than the devices themselves. So, take the time to assess your posture and work environment and always take regular breaks.
Here's how to work with VDUs safely:
Book an eye test
The Health and Safety (Display Screen Equipment) Regulations 1992 state that every employee should be provided with an eye examination, funded by their employer. If glasses are needed solely for VDU use, the employer is also entitled to pay, so it's well worth booking an appointment with your optometrist. Make use of the eye care vouchers provided by your company and choose a suitable pair of spectacles.
Take regular breaks
HSE (the national independent watchdog for work-related health, safety and illness) states that VDUs can cause tired eyes when used for long periods of time. Therefore, it's important to take short, but frequent breaks to relax the muscles in your eyes. Step away from your computer screen regularly and focus your attention on something else for a while. Wear glasses to prevent headaches and look up from your screen whenever you've got a few minutes to spare.
Create a safe workspace
To reduce the risk of aches and pains it's important to create a safe and comfortable workstation. Adjust your chair making sure your forearms are roughly horizontal and your eyes are level with the top of your VDU. If you have a bend in your neck, you've probably got your computer screen or device positioned too low or too high. Always clear space under your desk so you can move around freely and adjust the screen if there's a glare. Don't be afraid to ask your office manager for a foot rest, or decide to use a back support.
Avoid stress
People who work with VDUs often become stressed if their systems fail or their computer crashes – but this is not helpful. If you experience technical issues try to remain calm and consider your mental health. Simply ask for assistance or try to figure out the problem yourself in a calm, organised manner. If you're unconfident using particular programs ask for further training or research how-to guides in your own time. You'll feel a lot better about using VDUs if you understand the way they work.
Limit the amount of time you use a mouse
If you use a mouse or keyboard, try to take regular breaks and complete a few simple hand exercises. This will reduce the risk of repetitive strain disorder and will allow your arm muscles to relax for a while. Rest your arms on the desk while working and make sure your mouse is close to your body, so you don't have to strain to reach it.
More often than not health problems are caused by the way we used VDUs, rather than the devices themselves. So, take the time to assess your posture and work environment and always take regular breaks.
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