51

--------------------------------- ERGONOMICS

·summary: Definition �f Ergonomics, Objectives, Is Ergonomics related with productivity? A Man-Machine

system, Man in .a control loop system, Ergonomics in Computer work station.

51.1 DEFINITION OF ERGNOMICS

The word Ergonomics ha� its origin in two Greek words Ergos meaning work and Nomos meaning laws.
So, it is the study of the man in relation to his work. The word ergonomics is used commonly in Europe.
· In USA and· other countries it is called by the name "human engineering or it is also called human
factors rngineering".- Today, how.ever, the word .is used to descripe the science of "designing the job
to fit the worker, not forcing the worker to fit the job."
Ergonomics is a discipline which i�volves arranging the enviro!}Jl1ent to fit the person in it. When
ergonomics is applied correctly in the work environrrlent, visual.and musculoskeletal discomfort and fatigue
are reduced significantly. Ergonomics covers .all· aspects of a job; from the physical stresses it- places·
on joints,. muscles, nerves, tendons, bones and the like, to environmental factors which can affect hearing,
vision, and general comfort and health. ILO defines human engineering as, "The application of human
biological sciences along with engineering sciences to achieve optimum· mutual adjustment of1 me-n and
his work, the benefits being measured in ·terms_ of human efficiency and well-being." The human factors
or human engineering is concerned with man-machine system. Thus another definition which highlights
the.man-machine system is, "The design ofhuman tasks, man machine systerv, ,\nd effective accomplislunent
of the job, including displays for presenting information to human sensors, controls for human, operations
and complex man-machine systems."
As mentioned above the Physical stressors include repetitive motions such as those caused by typing
o! continual use of a manual screwdriver. Other physical stressors could be tasks involving vibration such
__ as using a jackhammer, or tasks which involve using· excessive force, such as lifting a heavy box ofbooks.
Working in an awkward position, such as holding a telephone to your ear with your shoulder, can also
cause problems. _Repetitive motions, vibration, excessive force, and awkward postitions are frequently
linked to ergonomic disorders; however, the majority of"Cumuhitive Trauma Disorders" (CTDs}'or_"Repe­
titive Strain Injuries" (RSis) are caused by repeti_tive motions that would not result iii undue stress or harm
ifonly performed once. Carpal tunnel syndrome, Tendonitis, Tenosynovitis, DeQuarvain's syndrome, Tiioracic
·outlet Syndrome, many back injuries, and several oth�r conditions may result from repetitive motions.
Environmental factors could include such things as indoor air quality or excessive noise. "Sick
building syndrome," with its accompanying headaches, congestion, fatigue �nd even rashes, can' result

"
766 INDUSTRIAL ENGINEERING AND MANAGEMENT

from poor air quality in a building or office. Excessive noise around heavy machinery or equipment
can cause permanent hearing loss. Improper lighting can cause eyestrain and headaches, especially in
conjunction with a computer monitor. Listen to the signals your body gives you. If you suffer pain in
the wrists or hands after a long day of typing, examine your work area and work practices to see if
they may be causing the problems. Learn to make adjustments. Raise or lower chairs to avoid typing
with your wrists at an odd angle. Adjust computer monitors to avoid glare. Take frequent breaks from
repetitive tasks to give your body a rest. Always use proper lifting techniques. Sometimes small modifications
to work procedures, posture, habits, and/or work station design can make a big difference in the way
you feel at the end of a day.

51.2 OBJECTIVES
Human engineering focuses on human beings and their interaction with products, equipment facilities
and environments used in the work. Human engineering seeks to change the things people use and the
environment in which they use the things to match in a better way the capabilities, limitations and needs
of people.
The two broader objectives of ergonomics are:
1. To enhance the efficiency and effectiveness with which the activities is carried out so as to increase
the convenience of use, reduced errors and increase the productivity.
2. To enhance certain desirable human values including safety reduced stress and fatigue and improved
quality of life.
Scope of Ergonomics: The scope of ergonomics is to design for human use and optimize the
working and living conditions and thereby making the job fit the worker, not forcing the worker to fit
the job.
The various disciplines that are going to have influence on human factors are:
1. Engineering, 2. Physiology,
3. Anatomy, 4. Psychology,
5. Industrial hygiene.
51.3 IS ERGONOMICS RELATED WITH PRODUCTIVITY?
In simple terms Productivity is the ratio of Output to Input. Productivity is a powerful tool for improve
the standards of living of people and to enhance the quality of work life (QWL). Ergonomics is concerned
AIMS IN ERGONOMICS USER-SYSTEM 'MATCH' •

Health, Safety, Satisfaction, Usability Effectiveness, Efficiency,

Comfort, Convenience and Interest
Utility [ Performance (Quality and Quantity)

Absenteeism, Labour turnover

Motivation, Commitment,
Acceptance of change

I Purchase, Use, Sell

Well-being of Well-being of
employee or user employer or producer

Figure 51.1 Benefits of ergonomics to the employees

ERGONOMICS 767

with man and his working conditions. Ergonomics aims at providing comfort and improved working condi-
tions so as to channelize the energy, skills of the workers into constructive productive work. This
improves the productivity, safety and reduces the fatigue of the worker. This helps to increase the
plant utilization, energy, skills of the workers into constructive productive work. This accounts for
increased productivity, safety and reduces the fatigue. Figure 51.1 gives the benefits of ergonomics to
the employees.

51.4 A MAN-MACHINE SYSTEM

A man-machine system consists of the following component as shown in Figure 51.2.
1. Design of information displays.
2. Design of controls.
3. Environmental factors.

Training and experience

Sensory
Functions

Data Pipeessing
Decision-Making

Manipulative
Functions

Environment, i.e., light, hear, noise, humidity, vibration

Figure 51.2 Man-Machine System Diagrammatic representation

Man in a Control Loop System: A typical man-machine control loop is shown in Figure 51.3.

Decision Element Display Element

Display Communication Channel

Control [lenient
Decision
Communication
Channel

Control Communication Channel

Figure 51.3 Man-Machine control loop system

Decision Communication Channel: The man machine control loop system starts with the decision
communication channel. The information is sent to the operator from a display element through display
communication channel. Any source of information which aids the operator in the control process is
called as display. The typical displays include dial gauges, digital displays, warning lights, etc.
768 INDUSTRIAL ENGINEERING AND MANAGEMENT

Types of displays: The displays can be classified as two: visual and audio.
1. Visual Displays
(a) Quantitative display
(b) Qualitative display
(c) Check display.
2. Auditory displays.
Decision Commun ,ion Channel: In a decision communication channel the information from .a display
is passed on to the control mechanism of the brain of the man via nervous system. There it is processed
to arrive at a decision relative to the required performance. This decision is communicated to mechanical
system of the human bone and muscular system which completes the decision communication channel.
Control Communication Channel: The control communication channel has a control. It is any device
which regulates the action of a machine. Some of the typical control includes hand wheels, levers, pedals,
control knobs, push buttons, etc. The contact between the operator and machine takes place at two channel
only, i.e., display communication channel and control communication channel. A poor design of display
and control may cause an error in the system hence the displays and controls must be designed ergonomically.
51.4.1 Design and Types of Controls
Controls are the means by which information is transmitted to the machine from the man. So the selection
of control is important and should be -considered as a functional requirement of the system. The various
types of controls are:
Hand controls: To design the dimensions of hand controls the anthropometric data for the human
hand can be used as an aid.
•
Check overhead lights and
ventilation ducts
4t2:31.°

Check for glare front and hack O

•
Hips, back and neck
form straight line
Display is slightly
below eye lavel

Wrists form straight

extension of the
Thighs are parallal
fore arms
to the floor

Foot are flat on the ground

or on a footrest

Figure 51.4 Optimum equipment set-up for ergonomics

ERGONOMICS 769

Hand levers: Levers give a quick control action anq can acCOQ'UTIOdate large forces. They are
not suitable for fine adjustments, but levers can provide efficient ON/OFF or step by step control.
·Hand wheels: Hand wneel provide a controlling torque via both hands and_ they are_ used for heavy
loads with good accuracy of adjus�ents.
Cranks: If it required to provide torque via one hand, cranks are used: Smaller cranks are used
· for fa�t control.
Knobs: Rotating knobs are recommended for light loading control with eith_er fingers or with whole
hand. Knobs are typically use in applications such as instrument control panels. Push buttons and toggle
switches: These are essentially used as light load ON/OFF controls and are normally designed for operation
by -one · finger.
Joysticks: This is a type of hand control now extensively use in computer applications including
CNC machines.
Foot pedals: These are used for fast action control with medium or heavy loading capacity. They
lack iri accuracy and range which may be obtained with hand controls. These are used in sitting position.
51.5 ANTHROPOMETRY
Anthropometry is a science that deals with the measurements of the dimensions and certain other physi­
cal characteristics of the body such as volumes, centre of gravity, inertial properties and body
segments.
-�
There are two pnmary types of body measurements: Static and dynamic (functional).
Static dimensions are measurements taken when the body is· in a fixed position. These consist
of:
• Skeletal dimensions (between dimensions of joints).
• Contour dimensions (skin surface dimensions).
The body measurements vary as a function of age, sex and for different countries. There are differences
in anthropometrics of male and female. Figure 51.5 gives the details of the anthropometric dat� or specific
body features. The dynamic (functional) dimensions are taken under conditions in which the body is
engaged in some physical activity.
Application of Anthropometric ,Data: It is essential in the design when items are designed for.
specific• groups soch as adult males, children, �tc., the data used should be specific for such groups
in the country or culture in question.

51.5.1 Principles in the Application of Anthropometric Data

Design for .extreme individuals: Designing for maximum population value is the recommended strategy
if a given maximum (high) value of some design feature should accommodate others. Designing for minimum
population value is an appropriate strategy if a given minimum (low) value of some design feature has
to accommodate all. For example,_ the distance of control switch from the operator ·and force required
to operate the switch.
Designing for adjustable range: While designing the features of equipment or facilities, provision fo{
adjust111,ent must be there for the individual who use t�em e.g., chairs, desk height, t.:tc.
Designing for average: Designers often design for the average as a compromise as do not have
to deal with anthropometric data.
 770 INDUSTRIAL ENGINEERING AND MANAGEMENT

Stature height (I)

i Stature height (I)

_l_ Eye height (2) Stature height erccl (6)

1--�-Shouldcr
height (3)
Chest depth -

Elbow rest -Thigh clearance height (9)

1
height (8)

T !- Buttock - knee
length (11)

Popliteal height (12)

(
) j- l·lbowtodbm, brcadth(l4)
�

ill
, �Hip brcad,n (15)
r

Fig 51.5 Anthropometric data (specific body features).

51.6 ANTHROPOMETRY FOR WORKPLACE DESIGN

While designing the workplace the designer must begin with the operator in mind. The design should
. be_ in such a way that the operator will have adequate and comfortable posture that he can see what
he must an operate his controls in an effective manner. If the workplace is not properly adapted to dimensions
and to his typically human characteristics, he will not bt:: able to perform his work with maximum efficiency.
The production jobs in industry oblige the worker to remain sitting or standing for long of time ·while
performing a given series of tasks. Such workplace design is influenced by many considerations. Inadequate
· design of the Wl)rkplaces will inhibit the ability of the worker to perform his tasks and may result the
injuries, strain or fatigue a reduction in quality. The determination of the work place involves the thorough
examination of the elements of work cycle and the body measurements, reach and capabilities of the wo'rker.
Dimensions ·of working surface: The normal and maximum working area for an operator is shown
in the Figure 51,6. The circumscribed line defines the maximum reach area for the operator. Any control or
ERGONOMICS 771

object that is to be grasped must be located within this area. It is the greatest distance from which from
which small objects can be procured. Large and heavy objects will have to be located even closer to
the body.
Normal work
Maximum work area area Work position

Male

Maximum work area Work position

Normal
work
are

Edge of work.

height

40
58
Female

Maximum

itto,
411

A(11(1111111 .A1.
10

at tt.„
Normal

.wP
Figure 51.6 Normal and maximum working space in three dimensions
772 INDUSTRIAL ENGINEERING AND MANAGEMENT

Dimensions of the working envelope: Operator not only performs the jobs in horizontal planes,
work is often done above the horizontal working plane. This is particularly important in man-machine
system when controls are to be manipulated. To determine the location of where controls are to be placed,
it is necessary to visualize a complex three-dimensional envelope of the space in front of the operator.
Design of workplace height: The correct working height depends on the nature of the task being
done. Many manual tasks are performed-when the work is at elbow height. If the job requires the perception
of fine visual detail, it will be necessary to raise the work above elbow height and bring it closer to
the eye.
84.7

3.9.5
35.7"
33.5
18.6 I 9
110 1 16-6
18.0
1170_
1
69.2" 5 —I

84.869.1
50.3
viri
12 9 .2
12.0 10.4 86
1 1.1 7.0

54.7 —

F-

: O R 3.2

40"
37.2 Counter ht

32.4 c cP

-0

7.6
24 min

19.2

3.2

5
3.9 I 4.
3.3
'hoe— 2 1-0-2

Figure 51./ Human dimensions of the average adult male

ERGONOMICS 773

Sit-Stand and Standing Workplace: In general, a sit-stand workplace is more desirable than either
sit or a stand workplace. Sit-stand �vorkplace is to be suitable for use of the operators, it must be provided
with an adjust height chair and an adjustable foot rest. However, the workplace for a standin•g job will
be greatly improved if it is made adjustable in height. When this is done, the distance from the floor.
to top of the working surface, should be variable from 36 to 42 inches for females ijnd 40 to 46 inchys
for males (Figure 51.7).
The Various aspects of dimensions of chairs like the width of the chafr, depth of the seat, the
back rest dimension is considered in designing °the �hair.
The general guidelille$ for designing the workplace are enumerated below:
(a) Within the· normal working area of the operator the materials and tools should be located as far
as possible.
(b) The materials and tools should be located in the_ order which they are used in assembly.
(c) Wherever possible gravity should be employed to make the raw materials reach the Qperator and
deliver it to next work station.
(d) Maximum comfort to the operator·must be kept in mind while designing the height of the chair
and other dimensions.
(e) Foot pedals should be used wherever possible.
51.7 ERGONOMICS IN COMPUTER WORKSTATION
The use of computer is becoming imperative in the day-to-day life. So, the need for kn.owing the Ergonomics
in Computer workstation is important. It is sure that the students referring this text will be using computers
in their routine work tomorrow when they take up a job. Some Suggestions for designing the computer
worlcstation is discussed.
Setting up the office using ergonomic considerations is important to protect the health of the employee.
Most ergonomic experts agree on certain ergonomic designs that will further the well being and productivity
of the employee. Similar to any workstation, Ergonomic design and correct compu_ter posture are essential
for good computer workstation (Figure; 51.8). It is most important that to maintain good posture at an
ergonomic workstation and otherwise there is a good chance for computer-related injury.

Figure 51.8 Ergonomics In Computer station

774 INDUSTRIAL ENGINEERING AND MANAGEMENT

Ergonomically designed computer furniture and accessories assist in creating a more healthy and
comfortable workstation. The adjustable LCD monitor arms, ergonomic keyboard trays, am1 rests and
wrist rests allow healthy positioning. The height and tilt adjustable computer workstations and laptop
stands can be used in sit stand position are worthwhile investments for health and productivity.Another
factor in designing the computer work station is the number of users. If·the computer is used by one
person then the arrangement can be optimized for that single person's size and shape, and features.
The case is different, _when there are multiple users. There ·is a need to create an arrangement that
closely satisfies the needs of the extremes that is the smallest and tallest, thinnest and broadest persons,
as well as those in between. The time of use is also to be considered. If it's a few minutes a day
then ergonomic issues need not be of a high priority. If use is more than 1 hour per day, it is advisable
that you create an ergonomic arrangement and more than 4 hours, then a thorough ergonomic setting
is needed...
For Desktops it is advisable that the computer monitor is separated from the keyboard. This permits
the user to easily place each of the separate components (monitor, keyboard, and mouse} at comfortable
settings. A Laptop pr notebook computers are designed for short periods of computer work, but many
people are using them for fulltime compu!ing. Ergonomic designs for laptop are more difficult because
laptop design ,is inherently problematic. That's because when the screen is at a comfortable height and
distance, the keyboard isn't and vice-versa. If a laptop is used for sustained lengths of time, purchasing
an external keyboard can be considered preferably with a negative-tilt keyboard tray. This \1/ill help in
arranging the workspace to create a good workstation layout. The computer system (monit@r, CPU system
unit, keyboard, and mouse) must be placed on a stable working surface with adequate room for proper
arrangement. The work surface should be between 27"-30" above the floor (suitable for most adults).
The system that is adjustable in height allows tilting .the keyboard down for ·better wrist posture. This
allows using the mouse with upper arms relaxed and as close · to the body as possible, arid with the
wrist in a comfortable and neutral position. ·
In a computer work station, a comfortable chair is necessary. As the name suggests it is for the_
users comfort to sit in. It should have ·a good backrest that provides support, and also possible to adjust
both the height and the tilt of the backrest. The seated posture of 100-110 degrees and NOT the upright
90 degree posture is often considered as the best posture. There are significant decreases in postural
muscle activity and intervertebral disc pressure in the lumbar spine when the user sets the chair's backrest
to the recommended reclined posture and work for the body.
Kind of work-Priority?
• Word processing-arrange . the best keyboard/mouse position 1s high priority.
• Net surfing, graphic design-a_rrange the best mouse position is high priority.
• Data entry-arrange· the best numeric keypad/keyboard is a high priority.
• Games-arrange the best keyboard/mouse/game pad is a high priority.·
51.7.1 Positioning the Monitor Screen
• The documents must be placed for reading ·as close to the computer monitor.
Computer monitor: The computer monitor should be placed directly in front and facing the
user. It should not be angled to the left or right. This helps to eliminate excessive neck twisting.
Center the monitor on the user. The body and/or neck should not be twisted when looking at the
screen.
. Monitor height: The Monitor height is also important. The users should not have to tilt heads
up or down to view the screen image clearly. Seated comfortably, the user's eyes should at least be
ERGONOMICS 775

in line with a point on the screen about 2-3" below the top of the monitor casing (not the screen).
Sit back in the chair at an angle of around 100-110 degrees (i.e., slight recline) and hold the right
arm out horizontally, the middle finger of the user should almost touch the center of the screen. This
is the best position for monitor.
Viewing distance: The monitor should be at a comfortable horizontal distance for viewing, which
usually is around an arms length (sit back in your chair and raise your arm and your fingers should
touch the screen).
Screen quality: Use a good quality computer screen. Make sure that the text characters on the
screen look sharp, and that they are a comfortable size (change the screen resolution to find a comfortable
and clear character size).
Eye checkup: It's a good idea to periodically have your eyes checked by a qualified professional.

51.7.2 Lighting, Ventilation, Noise Levels in the Computer Workstation

The lighting, ventilation and noise level in a computer work station is as important as in any other work
station. An even lighting which is not excessively bright is needed. There must not be any bright light
glare on the computer screen. Use a shade or drapes to control window brightness. With regard to the
ventilation, there must be adequate fresh-air ventilation and proper heating or cooling making a comfortable
working. Excessive or specific noises can cause stress for individuals, causing muscle tension and can
increase the risk of injury. A quiet place is needed for workstation (Figure 51.9).
Comfortable Display
Viewing distance height

Lamp

Document
holder

Back support

Table adjustable
for height for
terminal and
keyboard

Figure 51.9 Ergonomically designed computer work station

Have a Break: It is advisable to take a break in between the work. The different kinds of break
are:
Eye breaks: It is recommended that computer users briefly look away from the screen to a more
distant object every 15 minutes. This allows the muscles inside the eye to relax. Also, blink your eyes
rapidly for a few seconds. This refreshes the tear film and clears dust from the eye surface.
Micro-breaks: In a micro-break (< 2 minutes) stretch briefly, stand up, move around, or do a different
work task. Take one every 30 to 60 minutes.
776 INDUSTRIAl ENGINEERING AND MANAGEMENT

Exercise breaks: A minute or two of gentle stretching and exercises to help relieve muscle fatigue.
It is recommended every 1-2 hours.
Ergonomic gizmos: These days it's a commonly seen label that "ergonomically designed" and much
of the time this isn't true. When buying an "ergonomic product" it is better to ask the following four
que�tions and get the proper answers:
1. Do the product design and the manufacturer's claims make sense?
2. Any research evidence is provided by the manufacturer to support their claims.
3. Is it comfortable to use the product after an initial "getting acquainted period?
4. Whether ergononucs experts recommend it for use.
51.8 COMPUTER INJURIES
1. Cumulative Trauma Disorders: What is Cumulative Trauma Disorders (CTDs)? To understand
this, it is necessary to understand how the body works. The body movements are caused by the
contracting and relaxing muscles. The muscles are attached to bones by tendons. Tendons are smooth,
and in some parts of the body they glide back and forth inside tubes called synovial sheaths. The
sheath produces a lubricant called synovial fluid to help the tendons glide easily. Cumulative Trauma
Disorders are ,formed when repeated stress is placed on the tendons, muscles, or nerves causing
inflammation or damage.
The mo�t common Cumulative Trauma Disorders are: Tendonitis-inflammation of the tendons,
Tenosynovitis-inflammation of the synovial sheath and Carpal Tunnel Syndrome-results when the
median nerve is compressed, either from the· swelling of tendons and sheaths or from repeated
bending of the wrist.
The conditions that may lead to CTD are:
• Repetition-the long or concentrated hours of typing or using a mouse
• Posture-!.itting in the same position for long hours while typing, especially if it is in an uncomfortable
or poorty supported position, or if the wrists are bent
• Lack of Rest-intensive hours at the keyboard with few breaks
The Symptoms of CTDs are: .
• Tingling or numbness in the hands or fingers
· • Pain in fingers, . hands, wrists, or even shooting up into the arms or forearms
• Loss of strength or coordination in the hands
• Numbness or discomfort in the hands which wakes you up at night. ·
How to prevent. CTDs to Hands and Wrists: To prevent CTDs to hands and wrists, keep the
hands and wrists in as "neutral" ,a position as possible as shown in Figure 51.10. In other words,
avoid typing with the wrist bent to either side, or up or down. The wrists to be flexed in any
· direction. -
. The neutral position may be obtained by a_djusting the desk height, chair height, or keyboard position..
Some tips for preventing hand and wrist CTDs are given below:
• The keyboard -should be slightly lower than normal desk height. If it is not low enough, try
raising your chair height. Prevent your legs fro'm dangling by using a footrest.
. • While typing, it is best not to rest your wrists, and they should n�t be bent up, down, or
to the side. This may be easier if the back edge of the keyboard is tilted down slightly,
· away from you. The knuckle, wrist, and top of forearm should form a straight line. Wrist
ERGONOMICS 777

supports or rests give you a place to rest your hands only when pausing from typing, not
while you are typing.
fi r•

Figure 51.10 Neutral Position of the wrist on Keyboard

• Do not batter the keys. Use a light touch.

• Use two hands to perform the double key operations like Ctrl-C or Alt-F instead of twisting
one hand to do it.
• The elbows should form a 90 degree angle while "hanging" at the sides from the shoulders.
The shoulders should remain relaxed in a lowered position while typing.
• Take breaks to stretch and relax. Take frequent micro-breaks as well as longer breaks every
hour or so.
• Hold the mouse lightly.
• Keep your hands and arms warm.
2. Eyestrain and VDT's: Eyestrain is another ergonomic probtem frequently associated with the use
of computers and Video Display Terminals (VDTs).
Symptoms of eyestrain may be:
• Sore, tired, itchy, dry, or burning eyes
• Headaches
• Difficulty focusing between the VDT and source documents
• Blurred or double vision
• Color fringes/after images
• Increased sensitivity to light.
The*se symptoms may be caused by:
1. Improper lighting: If the light in the work area is too bright or too dim, the human eye has to
work extra hard to compensate for these harsh environmental factors. People may not even be aware
that their eyes are under duress, but over time they may develop symptoms of eyestrain.
Solution: Use indirect, ambient lighting and an adjustable light source at the desk, where extra illumination
is required.
2. Glare: Glare can be caused by sources of light such as windows, lamps, or overhead lighting.. Look
at your monitor screen to see if there are any bright spots of light. While you may not be conscious
of this irritation, it can cause eyestrain over the course of a long day. Glare can also be caused
by too much contrast between the screen background and the .displayed text.
778 INDUSTRIAL ENGINEERING AND MANAGEMENT

Solution: Adjust your monitor so that it is not reflecting the light source. Tilt the monitor down
so that it doesn't reflect overhead lights, or move it perpendicular to windows. Move lamps so
that they are not reflected directly in the monitor. U�e glare screens.
3. Eyewear: Many computer users we<N bifocals or trifocal lenses fitted for reading print and distance
viewing. Sometimes these prescriptions may not be adequate for computer work.
Solution: If you wear. glasses of any sort and frequently experience headaches _while working at
a computer, you should probably check with your eye doctor to make sure you are wearing the
correct prescription for such work. ·
4. Viewing angle and distance: If the monitor is too far away, the user may have to strain to read
the print. Likewise, if it is too close, user may also strain their eyes. If the monitor is too high,
user will have to angle the neck to look up at it, which could cause their neck to be sore, and
may contribute to headaches. Also, when you are continually looking up,. you may not fully close
your eyes when you blink, and this can cause your eyes to dry out.
Solution: Some literature will suggest keeping the monitor between 18-30 inches from the user,
with the first line of text just slightly below eye level.
5. Uninterrupted focus on the screen: When people concentrate, they blink less often. Sometimes
they concentrate so hard that they blink only once per minute, instead of the normal once every
five seconds. This, too, will cause the eyes to dry out and become irritated.
Solution: Take micro-breaks
6. Dust on screen: The dust on the screen can make it hard to distinguish characters. This may also
contribute to glare and reflection problems.
Solution: Dust off your monitor every dar
7. VDT and document holder location: If the document holder is below the VDT or off to the
side, each time your eyes look from one source to the other, your pupils have to adjust. If you
have to do this for long periods of time, it can cause headaches and eyestrain.
Solution: Place document holder at the same level, angle, and distance as the screen to avoid
having to s�ift eye focus.