Coleg Gwent Ergonomics

Coleg Gwent What does it mean?

Coleg Gwent Dictionary definition: The study of the relationship between people and machines they work with, and the environment they work in, with a view to increasing efficiency in work

Coleg Gwent We are going to look at how working with a computer can affect you

Coleg Gwent How to sit: A suitable computer chair should be used You should be able to adjust the height of the seat adjust the height of the back adjust the position of the back rest

Coleg Gwent The desk: Should be at the right height

Coleg Gwent Eyestrain and irritation are the most frequent complaints reported by computer operators

Coleg Gwent These visual symptoms can result from: Improper lighting Glare from the screen Poor positioning of the screen itself Copy material that is difficult to read

Coleg Gwent The screen: Should be at the right height Screens can be adjusted by tilting, and also adjusted for brightness and contrast Your eye line should be at the same height as the top of the screen

Coleg Gwent What is the best position for the monitor? The display should be directly in front of you, with the top of the display at eye level

Coleg Gwent Lighting: There should be no glare on your screen from either natural light or artificial lighting, if you have fluorescent lighting above, a diffuser should be used to spread light

Coleg Gwent Workspace: There should be sufficient work space between computer work stations

Coleg Gwent Being aware of all these things can prevent RSI What does RSI mean?

Coleg Gwent Repetitive Strain Injury

Coleg Gwent Repetitive Strain Injuries occur: From repeated physical movements causing damage to Tendons Nerves Muscles Other soft body tissue

Coleg Gwent Thousands of repeated keystrokes over long periods can slowly damage the body

Coleg Gwent Damage can be caused to: Hands Arms Shoulders Back Neck

Coleg Gwent Support for wrists and elbows will reduce strain on these areas

Coleg Gwent To prevent RSI the keyboard should: be placed so that your wrists are kept straight and level

Coleg Gwent The problems can be corrected by: Adjusting the physical setting Taking vision breaks Changing focus to relax the muscles Blinking the eyes for a few seconds Closing the eyes for a few seconds

Coleg Gwent RSI can be prevented by: Correct typing technique Good posture Using the correct equipment Good working habits

Coleg Gwent Finally: Make sure that you take frequent breaks Never spend more than 30minutes looking at the screen without taking a comfort break

Coleg Gwent Test your knowledge by clicking on the following link Drag and drop the correct answers to the correct space then click score to see how you’ve done! ict.com/gcse/theory/healthsafety/starters_plenaries/dragdrop1.htm ict.com/gcse/theory/healthsafety/starters_plenaries/dragdrop1.htm