Reasearch Paper: IE Concept Ergonomics

Tips for Computer Vision Syndrome Relief and Prevention

Authors: J. Tribleya, S.McClaina, A.Karbasia and J. Kaldenberga 

Source: Work 2011, Vol. 39 Issue 1

 

 

Introduction  

The Paper presents tips for the relief and prevention of computer vision syndrome. The diagnosis and treatment of symptoms including eyestrain, visual discomfort, and visual fatigue are caused by visual display terminals (VDT), can lead to the improvement of performance of the user and lower the risk of ocular problems. When spending time in front of the computer, the article suggests following the 20/20/20 rule to improve work efficiency and prevent eye strain.

•  Keep an eye out for eye fatigue symptoms

Computer-related vision symptoms such as eye fatigue have some common causes that should not be ignored. Visual display Terminals (VDTs) cause symptoms such as eyestrain, visual discomfort, and visual fatigue,light sensitivity, neck, back, and shoulder pain, and double vision . Detecting the likely diagnosis and treating the cause can result in improving performance of the user and lowering the risk of ocular problems .

• Limit the amount of time you spend in front of the computer if possible

Limiting the amount of time spent in front of the computer will have a dramatic impact on symptoms associated with computer vision syndrome.It is suggested to follow the 20/20/20 rule in that the computer user after working on a computer for 20 minutes, the user must look away at 20 ft for at least 20 seconds. This can improve the work efficiency and prevent eye strain.

• Get an eye exam aimed at computer vision

The National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) suggests that computer users have an eye exam before working on a computer and once a year thereafter. Individuals should be sure to tell their optometrist how often and where they use a computer as well as the distance they normally sit from their computer.

• Set up your computer or laptop properly to minimize and relieve symptoms

Height and inclination of monitor has influence on the visual discomfort for both men and women. In a study by Rechichi, and Scullica (1990), it was shown that visual discomfort has a high correlation with height and inclination of computer monitor, therefore it is highly suggested the use of an ergonomic position of the computer monitor and chair, found that smaller angle of gaze leads to more CVS symptoms than large angle (14 degrees or more).

• Use Proper Lighting and Minimize Glare

When using a computer the lighting should be half that of normal room illumination. This can be done with dimmer switches, closing blinds or shades, use of 3 way bulbs, or use of low intensity bulbs. Glare and reflections on computer screens can also cause eye strain.  The best way to minimize glare is to use an anti-glare cover over the screen and use of flat screens when possible.

• Adjust and Clean Your Computer Screen

Adjust the brightness so it is about the same as your surroundings and adjust contrast as high as possible to eliminate discomfort Dust may also impair one’s vision when viewing a computer screen by
affecting the glare, so be sure all monitors or screens are clean and free of dust.

• Make Sure You Are Blinking

The environment, including poor lighting, focusing on the VDT, and blinking helps to fend of dryness and irritation in your eyes and studies show that people blink less frequently when using computers .  Dry eye is another cause of eye strain and its associated symptoms.  Although screen glare and character size don’t affect blink rate, studies have shown that a visual demanding computer work can decrease the blink rate from 24 to 5 blinks per minute .

• Take Breaks

To reduce your risk for computer vision syndrome as well as for neck, back, and shoulder pain, take frequent breaks. Make sure to stand up and move as well as look away from the computer. Take frequent work break (at least once per hour) in order to prevent the eye strain associated by prolong eye work . It also helps the muscles of the eye to relax, decreasing the eye fatigue and headache.

• Consider Computer Eyewear

To maximize comfort when at your computer talk to your optometrist about a customized prescription made especially for computer working distance. This is especially important if you wear contacts, which can become dry and uncomfortable during computer work, or when using bifocals or progressives, which may not be optimal for computer distances.

• Check How Far You or Your Child is Sitting From the Computer Screen

It is important for parents and teachers to monitor how far the children sits from the computer screen. There is a difference between retinal images when eyes are shifted from distance to near. In order to adapt to this change, eyes accommodate which means they change the thickness of the lens . According to Guidelines for work with VDUs the safe distance from the computer screen is between 45 cm and 70 cm .