Introduction
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These guidelines provide a brief account of the most important
considerations for safe and effective use of keyboards and
screen-based equipment. Faculty and other heads should ensure
that supervisors and users of screen based equipment are aware
of these guidelines as they form part of the University Prevention
Program for keyboard operation injuries.
Users of screen based equipment world-wide have reported
eye strain, musculo-skeletal and other health problems thought
to be related to the use of such equipment. Researchers have
attributed many of these reports to a lack of consideration
of ergonomics.
Although designed predominantly for screen-based equipment
users, these guidelines and the ergonomic principles on
which they are based may be applied to many other tasks
within the University. For example, users of all types of
keyboards - typewriters, accounting machines or adding machines
- can apply these guidelines in the design of their work and
workplace. Similarly, laboratory staff or users of other scientific
equipment may be guided by these principles in the layout
and organisation of their work.
These guidelines were produced to assist management and staff
control hazards that may lead to injury in the screen based
environment. Please contact staff in the Occupational Health
and Safety Unit if you require assistance in implementing
these guidelines.
Office
Ergonomics and Occupational Health
from The
Ergonomics Unit - Worksafe Australia
Ergonomists aim to provide
working conditions which are well above the minimum
required to ensure the health and safety of the workforce.
Thus, in achieving a comfortable, productive and satisfying
office environment, any musculo-skeletal complaints
would be minimised. To design such an environment, it
is necessary to consider not only furniture and equipment
but also the job designs, lighting, noise, air quality,
office landscaping and personal space.
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note:
The terms screen based equipment and visual display unit
are used synonymously throughout this document.
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Last revised: 1 August 2000
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