Eye health and computer screens

According to the London Hazards Centre between 70-80% of people working at a computer screen for more than 6 hours a day experience visual problems.

As technology plays an ever more prominent role in our daily lives, the subject of eye health and computer usage is becoming increasingly important.

According to the London Hazards Centre, surveys of people working at a computer screen for more than six hours a day have found that over 70% (and up to 91%) experience visual problems. In addition, a report published by the University of California’s Berkeley School of Optometry has claimed that as many as 30% of American schoolchildren are "causing undue stress on their eyes by using the computer too much", and it went on to claim a link between premature mypoia and computer use.

Although computer usage has not been conclusively shown to cause permanent damage to healthy eyes, there is evidence to suggest that small vision defects that don’t cause symptoms in everyday life may start to cause problems when carrying out more visually demanding tasks. In other words, computer screen use could exacerbate existing conditions that you may be unaware of. This is one reason why early detection of vision impairment - however slight - is so important.

Of the visual problems reported by users, the most common are eyestrain, double vision, temporary short-sightedness and visual fatigue. The term eyestrain alone can cover a range of symptoms, including irritation, soreness, photosensitivity and general tiredness.

The causes vary, but the most common are a fault in the focusing of the eye, poor eye coordination, badly positioned equipment and documents, screen glare, inadequate lighting and perhaps also infrequent maintenance of equipment.

Solution

Some of the causes can easily be eliminated, for example by using a document holder and fitting a screen filter to cut down on glare. But one of the most effective ways of looking after eyes is simply to stop for regular brief breaks.

Make sure computer equipment is positioned correctly

Organise your workspace

However, it is also important to organise the work materials as well. Document holders are simple to install and allow the worker to avoid twisting the back and shoulders. The MicroDesk is a clear acrylic sloping writing surface designed to hold paperwork directly in front of you, avoiding the need to twist to one side or stretch over papers to use your keyboard.

Take regular short breaks