What are the common hazards of computer work? What causes them?
The most common hazards are visual problems, soft tissue injuries, and stress. Visual problems Eye symptoms related to computer use include: • stinging, itching or gravelly sensation; • irritation; • feeling tired; • light sensitivity; • redness; • blurred or double vision; and • temporary myopia (cannot see distant objects clearly right after computer use). Eye muscles get tired if you stare on a computer screen for a while. If your monitor is near a window, your eyes will get tired trying to adjust to the difference between brighter outside light levels and the monitor’s glow. Computer work slows down the blinking rate, so eyes can dry out. Glare, light levels and screen colours and contrast also are important. Bifocal and progressive lenses may not let you see the screen without straining eyes or neck and shoulder muscles, which can lead also to soft tissue injuries. Soft tissue injuries Some of the most common injuries linked to computer work show up in the wrist, arm, shoulders, n
