Health and Safety when using ICT By the

Health and Safety when using ICT

By the end of this lesson… You will be able to: • Know 3 health risks that are associated with using ICT. • Know at least 2 ways of preventing the health risks. • Understand what is meant by the term “ergonomic” and look at how a suitable work area is set up.

ICT Health and Safety Working with computers for long periods of time can cause many different kinds of health problems… • Back Problems. • Eyestrain. • Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI)

Back Problems Many computer users suffer serious back problems. This is due to poor posture or an awkward position sitting at a desk/computer. Solutions to Back Problems: • An adjustable chair to avoid awkward posture. • Sit with your back straight and head up. • Use a footrest.

Eyestrain Eyes can become strained after staring at a computer screen for a long time, particularly if working in bad light or with a flickering screen. Solutions to Eyestrain: • Take regular breaks – do not work for more than 1 hour at a time. • Windows around you must have blinds to avoid glare from the sun. • Have regular eye tests. Eyestrain can lead to headaches…

Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI) is damage to the fingers and wrists due to repeated movements over a long period of time e. g. keying letters into keyboard. Solutions to RSI: • Keep your elbows close to your sides. • Use wrist rests and avoid bending your wrists. • Take a break from typing per hour.

For the exams… For the exams, make sure you can name the 3 risks of using ICT and give at least 2 ways to prevent them!

Ergonomics Ergonomic : An item designed to work with the natural movement of the human body.