Display Screen Equipment Safety: What You Need To Know

When it comes to perfecting your office desk setup, there are a few things you should take into consideration. From your computer screen to your keyboard and mouse, it’s important that you know how to strategically organise your display screen equipment and accessories to ensure you’re comfortable while you work and you’re not putting your health and wellbeing under unnecessary stress or strain. So, to learn how to create a safe and comfortable workstation, keep reading. Your computer screen

Make sure it’s positioned correctly

As a general rule, your computer screen should sit directly in front of you. To position it correctly, make sure it’s about an arm’s length away from you and the top of the screen is at eye level when you’re sat down. To achieve the right height, you might need to adjust the screen at the back or invest in a monitor stand. If it’s too high or too low, you will have to bend your neck to see the screen properly, so it’s important to get the height spot on. It also pays to make sure your screen can swivel and tilt as this can help you to achieve the optimum position and prevent any strain on your neck or back while you work. When positioning your monitor, you should also make sure it’s as glare-free as possible. If you can, place it in a way that avoids reflections from overhead lighting and sunlight. To see if there is a glare on your screen, hold a mirror in front of it. This will help you see where reflections are coming from. If there is a glare, you could use an anti-glare screen filter.

Adjust the settings accordingly

Once your computer screen is in place, you will need to check that the settings are just right. Firstly, it’s important to make sure the monitor is clean and that once it’s turned on, the text on the screen is clear, readable and a comfortable size. You should not have to squint or strain your eyes, so if you’re struggling to read the text, you may need to adjust the settings on your computer. The screen should also show clear, stable images. If the picture flickers or jitters, you may be able to reduce the movement by altering the screen colours. It’s also important to ensure the brightness and contrast resolutions of the monitor are just right, and that its specifications are suitable for what it’s going to be used for. Your keyboard

Check it’s in good condition

Firstly, it’s important to make sure that your keyboard is in good condition. It should be clean and you should be able to read each key clearly. You should also be able to press each one easily without them sticking. If your keyboard isn’t up-to-scratch, it may need modifying or replacing with a new model.

Make sure it’s in the right position

When it comes to positioning your keyboard, you might think it’s as simple as just setting it down in the middle of your desk. While this is true to an extent, there are a few factors to take into consideration. You should make sure your keyboard is separate from the screen and placed directly in front of you. Ideally, the device should be set down between four and six inches from the front of the desk, leaving you with enough room to rest your wrists. The position of your keyboard should enable you to keep you arms bent in an L-shape with your elbows by your sides while you type. To help you use your keyboard comfortably, you could use a wrist support. This cushioned accessory sits in front of your keyboard, providing you with a place to rest your hands while you type, and it keeps your wrists straight and at the same level as the keys. Check your keyboard has a tilt too. Raising the device slightly may help you achieve a comfortable position for typing. If you are struggling to use your keyboard, you could try pushing your screen further back to create more room.

Master your technique

Although it’s important to position your keyboard correctly, it’s also vital that you know how to use it properly. Your technique can impact on how comfortable you feel when you’re using the device. For example, you should refrain from hitting the keys too hard and overstretching your fingers. It’s also vital that you don’t bend your hands up at the wrist. If you’re unsure how to use your keyboard effectively, your employer should be able to provide you with training. Your mouse

Check it works properly

It’s vital that your mouse works smoothly and a speed that suits you. If it’s not working as effectively as you would like, you could inspect the mouse ball to see if it needs cleaning. It’s also important that you check the work surface you’re using. You might find that a mouse mat is needed.

Position it in the right place

Ideally, your mouse should be placed next to your keyboard. It should be close enough so that you can move your hand from your keyboard to your mouse with ease. You shouldn’t have to stretch yourself awkwardly to reach it.

Make sure it’s comfortable to use

When you’re using your mouse, your hand and forearm should be fully supported. This support could be from the desk surface or the arm of your chair. Alternatively, you could use a mouse mat which has an inbuilt wrist support. This will prevent your wrist from becoming stiff and sore. Creating a comfortable desk setup doesn’t have to be difficult, especially if you put these tips into practice. Your health and wellbeing is paramount, so it’s important that you take the right steps to look after yourself while you’re at work.

April 6, 2017 | View: 413 | Categories: ROOT