Are you going cross-eyed?

(Image courtesy of Neal Krummell)

The typical office bod spends up to a staggering 16 hours per day in front of a screen whether that be a computer screen or a television! Furthermore, nearly every business nowadays relies on computers or VDU (Visual Display Units) to engage in their day-to-day activities.

For most, no ill-effects are suffered, but for some, headaches, dizziness and backaches are a regular occurrence to those technological wizards out there. But…a desk job does not have to be such an ordeal.

Remember that even for small businesses, your employer is legally obliged to ensure that your workstation is suited to your individual needs and they should also assess and reduce any risks to your health and safety, as stated in various health & safety regulations.
For those that just want an easy life and to be comfortable at work, follow these simple steps:

• Plan so there are regular breaks and changes in the type of work you do
• If you have concerns, report them to your employer
• Observe the proper sitting posture
• Do simple stretching exercises
• Stand up and walk around every 30 minutes (take advantage of downtime created by rebooting/downloading large files)
• Regularly shift your focus from the computer screen, drink plenty of water and take a few deep breaths

For further information see Health and Safety (Display Screen Equipment) Regulations 1992

Now get back to work!!!!