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 SafetyWorking with computers for long

periods of time can cause many different kinds of health problems…

• Back Problems.

• Eyestrain.

• Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI)

Back ProblemsMany 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.

EyestrainEyes 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 InjuryRepetitive 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.