Computer Related Stress - DPChallenge Forums

Olympus 12-45mm f/4.0 Pro

07/27/2006 03:39:38 PM · #1

I've noticed people complaining a lot about aches and pains related to prolonged computer use, so I thought I would do some research on it and post some information. I have a cool exercise chart with me which I could not find online, so I will scan it and give it to someone so they can put it in their portfolio and put a thumbnail here for everyone. Here goes :

== Direct Computer Stress Symptoms ==

-headaches while doing or following computer use
-irritated and/or dry eyes
-blurred vision
-slow refocusing when looking from screen to distance objects
-frequently losing place when moving eyes between copy and the screen
-difficulty seeing clearly at a distance after prolonged computer use
-occasional doubling of vision
-changes in color perception
-changes in glasses prescription

== Other Computer Stress Symptoms ==

-neck or shoulder tension and pain
-back pain
-pain in arms, wrists, or shoulders when working on the computer
-lowered visual efficiency and more frequent errors

== Work Station Recommendations ==

-The computer screen should be slightly below eye level (about 20 degrees). Copy should be at the same level as the screen.
-Locate keyboard so your wrists and lower arms are parallel to the floor.
-Chairs should provide proper back support and be adjustable.
-Adjust the chair height so your feet are flat on the floor with thighs parallel to the floor.
-Adjust the worktable so legs and knees clear it's underside
-The screen brightness and contrast should be adjusted by the operator for the maximum viewing comfort.
-The workstation lighting should provide a 10:3 ratio: screen characters 10 times brighter than the screen background; room illumination 3 times brighter than screen background.
-Each workstation should have an adjustable shaded copy lamp that can be aimed by the operator without causing screen reflections.
-Eliminate glare and screen reflections by moving or tilting the computer or getting an anti-glare screen.
-Try not to face toward windows or bright light sources.
-Operators should face into an open space beyond the computer screen.
-Clean the screen regularly as they attract dust.
-Take a short break, 10-15 minutes every two hours, to relax your eyes and body.

Some links :

Typing Injury FAQ
Computer Related Repetitive Strain Injury
Computer Vision Syndrome
BBC - Health threat from computer use
Eye Strains from computer screens
Workstation Ergonomics
Computer Desk Stretches

Software :

RSI Warrior 2 - Exercises
Breaktime 1 - Typing Breaks

OdysseyF22

Panasonic DC-G9

07/27/2006 03:59:08 PM · #2

So I guess sitting in the dark, with a plain wall behind my computer, which is at eye level, reclined back in my chair ISN'T a good thing.

Oops.

Silliness aside, this is a serious issue that we should all pay more attention to.

07/27/2006 04:38:55 PM · #3

Originally posted by OdysseyF22:

No I don't think that's a good thing hehe... You're right it is a serious issue. I had slight discomfort in my right arm and these exercises helped a lot. We do tend to get so lost in our work that we forget all about posture and everything. That is why these monitoring software are a very good thing.

07/27/2006 07:11:58 PM · #4

Bump.

Canon EF-S 15-85mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM

07/28/2006 09:39:54 AM · #5

Is nobody interested in this? *sob*

UrfaK

Canon EOS-650/T4i Rebel

07/28/2006 11:34:29 AM · #6

Sounds like my life story..
Woke up some time back with an aching arm. Couldn't move the darn thing and 'I' kept wondering why the hell was that happening. I kept saying but I don't even use my left arm for anything. Obviously I was struck by memory loss about the fact that I'd spent 8 hours manuvering my mouse with my 'left arm'
I do 3% of all the things that have been suggested..
Sad

th3ph17

Canon EOS-20D