Health and Safety Issues

Health Concerns

Lack of exercise!
RSI-repetitive stress (strain) injuries, such as carpal tunnel syndrome.
Eyestrain, far sightedness, eye muscle damage (virtual reality headsets and kids).
Controversial: miscarriages/birth defects; cancer.
EMF fields can slow down melatonin production (a hormone) that suppresses breast cancer cells.
Recent studies suggest some drugs may not work well in EMF fields, see J. Raloff, "Magnetic Fields can diminish Drug Action," Science News. 152:342 (11/29/97).
For more information, see J. Raloff, "EMF's Biological Influences," Science News. 153:29-31 (1/10/98).

Magnetic Fields (milligauss, at 6 inches)

hair dryer 	low: 1		high: 700
vacuum cleaner	low: 100	high: 700
color TV	low: undetected	high: 20
copy machine	low: 4		high: 200
monitor		low: 7		high: 20

Recommendations

Discuss an exercise regimen with your health care practioner.

Sit so that your upper arm and lower arm form a 90 degree angle.

Sit so that your thigh and lower leg form a 90 degree angle.

Look directly at, or slightly down at the keyboard

Take breaks!

Look away from the screen and focus on a distant object periodically.

Keep your wrists elevated.

Avoid glare.

Avoid sitting directly behind or at the sides of a computer. (There is more electromagnetic radiation from the sides and back.)

Keyboard trays, chairs, and copy holders should all be adjustable.

Employers should investigate state/local regulations for ergonomic workstations and consider business insurance in case of lawsuits.

If you work with computers a lot, inform your physician and eye care practioner.