Computer Systems 1Fundamentals of Computing

Health & Safety

Computer Systems 1 (2004-2005)

Health & Safety

Working with computers Effects on life

Health & Safety Social aspects Legal requirements / implications Equipment specific aspects Environmental issues Ergonomics

Computer Systems 1 (2004-2005)

Working with computers

Risks and effects associated with computer use These are not only health related but also have

social and economical implications Computers and technology encroach on many

aspects of everyday life Desktop computers Laptop computers PDA’s Mobile phones

Computer Systems 1 (2004-2005)

Working with computers

“All businesses must ensure their workplace - whether this is a factory, office or shop - meets minimum health and safety standards.”

IT Related employer responsibilities: carrying out a risk assessment ensuring employees use IT equipment safely reporting accidents or dangerous incidents in the

workplace to the relevant authorities

UK Law (www.businesslink.gov.uk)

Computer Systems 1 (2004-2005)

General Health & Safety

Risk Assessment All business must carry out an assessment Issues

What are the potential hazards? What hazard prevention measures are in place?

Five Step Risk Assessment1. Look for the hazards2. Decide who might be harmed and how3. Evaluate risks and decide whether existing precautions

are adequate or whether more needs to be done4. Record your findings5. Review your risk assessment from time to time and

revise it

Computer Systems 1 (2004-2005)

General Health & Safety

Equipment Regulations Equipment must be suitable and safe to use under the

Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER).

All equipment must be: suitable for its intended use maintained in a safe condition accompanied by suitable safety measures such as

protective devices, markings and warnings Only people who have received adequate information,

instruction and training use the equipment.

Computer Systems 1 (2004-2005)

Specific IT Regulations

Health and Safety (Display Screen Equipment) Regulations 1992

Measures: Ensure workstations and workplace layout meet a

range of minimum requirements in areas such as clarity of image, adjustable chairs and suitable lighting

Ensure staff receive a Display Screen Equipment risk assessment and arising problems are resolved

Computer Systems 1 (2004-2005)

Specific IT Regulations

Health and Safety (Display Screen Equipment) Regulations 1992

Measures continued: Give staff regular breaks away from display

screens Pay for employees' eye tests on request Provide training so staff can use their VDU and

workstation safely

VDU User Guide http://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/indg36.pdf

Computer Systems 1 (2004-2005)

Health and Safety

Predominantly because of keyboard and mouse use RSI (Repetitive Strain Injury)

Primarily affects the hand and arms (pain!!!)Can cause permanent damage

CTS (Carpal Tunnel Syndrome)Mainly affects the wrists of computer users

Especially in the mouse handSwelling of tendons, causes pressure on the nerves

Computer Systems 1 (2004-2005)

Health and Safety VDU use

VDU = Visual Display UnitThe monitor or screen to you and I

Eye strain Poor positioning of monitor Issues with electrostatic fields

Skin and eye irritation Magnetic & light radiation Issues with electromagnetic fields

Reduction of immune system effectiveness

Computer Systems 1 (2004-2005)

Solutions - Overview Working environment

OHSA (US) Occupational

Health and

Safety

Administration

www.osha.gov

UK Health and

Safety Executive www.hse.gov.uk

Computer Systems 1 (2004-2005)

Solutions - Overview Ergonomics

Correct posture Positioning of components Copy holders Better work environment Adjustable chair, desk, etc.

Wrist supports Monitor filters Regular breaks

Computer Systems 1 (2004-2005)

VDU Legal Requirements

Computer screens should: tilt and swivel to suit the needs of the user be adjusted to the correct height for the user show clear characters with adequate spacing show a stable image with no flickering have easily adjustable brightness and contrast controls be free of reflected glare have a screen size suitable for its intended use

You should also ensure that users know: how to adjust brightness and contrast controls to suit keep the screen surface clean how to adjust software settings to make text large enough to read

easily take frequent breaks

Computer Systems 1 (2004-2005)

Keyboard Legal Requirements

Keyboards should: be tilt adjustable and separate from the screen to allow the

user to work comfortably have enough space in front of them to allow the user to rest

their hands and arms when not keying be legible and have a matt surface to minimise glare

You should also ensure that users: adjust the keyboard to get a comfortable position keep their wrists straight when keying use the keys lightly and not overstretch their fingers take frequent breaks

Computer Systems 1 (2004-2005)

Pointing Device Legal Requirements

If an employee uses a mouse, trackball or other pointing device for long periods, they may develop problems in their hands, wrists or upper body

Minimise risk by: Train user to use the mouse with relaxed arm and a straight wrist informing the user that their fingers should rest lightly on the

buttons and not press too hard limiting the length of intensive mouse sessions ensuring users take frequent short breaks ensuring the device is suitable for the task training the user in keyboard shortcuts training the user to adjust the software settings - these control

the reaction time between the mouse and the cursor on the screen

Computer Systems 1 (2004-2005)

Laptop Advice

Some design features on laptops and portable computers can make them uncomfortable to use for long periods

Employees shouldn't therefore use laptops where full-sized equipment is available

Laptops should: be as light as possible - 3kg or under be fitted with as large and clear a screen as

possible preferably detachable or height-adjustable

come with a lightweight carrying case with handle and shoulder straps

Computer Systems 1 (2004-2005)

Laptop Advice

Laptops should: have a tilt-adjustable keyboard be able to be used with a docking station have friction pads underneath to prevent sliding

across work surfaces have enough memory and speed for the software

used be fitted with as long a battery life as possible and

have extra transformer/cable sets provided so that the user has a set in each main location where the equipment is used

Computer Systems 1 (2004-2005)

Laptop Advice

Laptops users should be aware of: comfortable postures for using a laptop using the keyboard at the right height adjusting the screen to reduce reflection and glare the need for regular rest breaks how to report any problems that develop how to reduce the manual handling risk,

eg by reducing the amount of extra equipment and paperwork to be carried

how to reduce the risk from theft or mugging

Computer Systems 1 (2004-2005)

The Workstation

Desks: big enough to allow the user to arrange the screen,

keyboard, documents, etc in a flexible way have a matt surface big enough to let the user work comfortably & change

position be stable and positioned so that it's comfortable and easy

to use where an employee uses a document holder Chair:

be stable and allow the user to work comfortably be adjustable in height have a seat back adjustable in height and tilt

Computer Systems 1 (2004-2005)

Social Implications of Computers

Computers are everywhere! IT training becoming a necessity Everyone prone to health and safety issues with

technology Stress / ‘Computer rage’

Software manufacturers fault?

Information easily available and easy to share Less need for social interaction Why can’t the computer do it? Laziness? Un-sociable society?

Computer Systems 1 (2004-2005)

CS1: Week 10

What you know now: Aspects of safety General working requirements IT Specifics

MonitorsWorking with computersHealth & Safety IssuesVDU usageWorkstationEquipment safety