Problem: Depending on the software program, many computer users are force to repetitively click on the mouse or trackball. How can this be avoided?
Solution: Prior to purchasing software products companies should evaluate it using a "safety criteria" to insure that users will not be forced to perform repetitive clicking or repetitive and awkward key combinations. Once the software has already been purchased users can reduce the amount of clicking performed by one finger by
Problem: Vision issues are quite prevalent for computer users, particularly as workers get older. Many workers need a distance vision correction as well as a near vision correction. Using progressive lens that correct for both, can have challenges when using them for computer work and deskwork. To bring the material in line with the right correction level often repetitive, yet small, head movements must be made. This often leads to headaches and neck discomfort.
Solution: Talk with your Optometrist about using computer glasses. These are single lens glasses that will allow you to see all items (paper documents, computer text, phone numbers) in your workspace clearly. Also you may want to visit Dr. Jeffery Anshel's web site to get more information regarding vision and vision issues. It has some very good information.
Problem: People with chronic low back pain resulting from disk compression often can not tolerate sitting in traditional chairs for very long before their symptoms worsen. This negative impacts their productivity at work and their ability to drive for longer distance, sit and watch a movie and perform other normal daily activities. The bio mechanical problem is that when a person closes the hip angle, as they do when sitting, the pelvic and spine change positions and vertebra disk pressure increases and nerve impingement can occur.
Solution: To effectively manage chronic low back conditions the following solutions often work.
- Whenever sitting make sure your knees are lower than your hips. This will help maintain the spine in more of a neutral position and decrease disk loading.
- Use a wedge cushion to enhance this type of posture. This can be taken to meetings, movies, and games and can be used in the car. There are a number of styles on the market, just search "wedge cushion" and see what you get. Make sure the cushion is firm enough that you don't sink into it, as it needs to support you upright.
- Vary your posture by creating a sit-stand station at work so you can sit some of the time and stand some of the time.
- Use an alternative chair that actually places your pelvis and spine in more of a neutral posture. There are a number of chairs to look at. See the web sites below for more information.
www.healthydesign.com/bss/bss.html
www.healthpostures.com/videos
www.swopperusa.com
www.salli.com
www.fitter1.com/ball_chair.html
Problem: Computers are a part of almost all jobs, and tasks performed on computers are increasing steadily. As a result, more and more workers are developing computer related discomfort and injuries. Once a cumulative trauma disorder occurs workers are often are left with restrictions that limit the amount of time that they can spend performing computer related tasks.
Solution: Sometimes employers can rearrange tasks to reduce the amount of computer work but often; in today's work world this is not feasible. Another option is to use voice activated software. This type of software is gaining in popularity as it is becoming easier to use with a productivity advantage. The trick is to get the right software for the applications being used and to get the right amount of training to be able to take full advantage of the software's potential. Before deciding if this is right for you have the vendor provide you with an evaluation to include "workflow, computer systems, software, and objectives" to see how the voice activated software will integrate and meet your needs. For more information go to www.zephyr-tec.com/services
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