the rsi leaflet provides general information about rsi,
working with display screen equipment (dse) and ways to prefvent complaints. In addition, you will find software offering instructions on how to optimally set up your workstation (digital self-help instrument) and a link to sign up for a relaxing chair massage. Other topics you can find information on include the RSI prevention software Workrave, the buying of computer glasses and the risks of working on a laptop or tablet.
Anti-RSI programme (Workrave)
To prevent RSI, UT staff members can download the RSI prevention software Workrave. It reminds users not only to take micro-breaks but also to take rest breaks. In addition, Workrave provides exercises and may restrict you to a daily limit. That way, the risk of you developing complaints of the neck, shoulders, arms or hands is reduced to a minimum. You can download and install the software via www.workrave.org.
Information on computer glasses
For the vast majority of us, reading difficulty increases as we age and usually becomes noticeable when we get to our 40s. This is caused by a naturally occurring loss of elasticity in the eye. Do you find yourself squinting and holding your reading material farther away, or do you have a hard time reading in low light conditions? After some time, problems with looking at the monitor screen may also develop and computer glasses are needed when using a screen. These are covered by the University of Twente for employees.
Below you can find general information on computer glasses, the procedure on how to order them and what the terms and conditions are.
Laptop, tablets and RSI
An ever-increasing number of people are using mobile devices such as tablets and laptops. This is particularly practical for people who travel a great deal, who have more than one workplace in the office or work at different sites, or attend many meetings. However, the use of laptops and tablets carries a greater risk of RSI. Below, you can find an overview of information on the correct use of laptops and tablets in order to prevent health complaints as far as possible.
LAPTOPS
The use of laptops is discouraged because it results in an unfavourable posture that draws the head towards the screen, because of the low position of the screen. This puts strain on the head and neck. In addition, the small size of laptops leads to a more static body posture that is more likely to cause health complaints.
As such, laptops do not meet display screen workspace requirements as defined in the Working Conditions Act. There is, however, an alternative: using a laptop station. This allows the user to adjust the height of the laptop screen quickly and easily to any height desired, facilitating a suitable working posture. In combination with an external keyboard and an external mouse, it is possible to create a fully-fledged workstation (see photo below).
TABLETS
Increasingly often, both employees and students are using tablets in addition to other devices such as laptops or desktops. Tablets are practical devices for paperless meetings, for example. It does, however, also have a number of disadvantages. Tablets are not comfortable or productive to use for a longer period of time, nor for writing substantial amounts of text. Leaning forward over the tablet places additional strain on the neck and shoulders, which can eventually lead to health problems.
To minimize physical health complaints caused by the use of tablets, it is important not to view or use a tablet as a replacement for a desktop or laptop (including laptop station).
However, a tablet can be used effectively for short-term activities, e.g. retrieving and reading information and (meeting-related) documents and making brief notes.
The following tips can help prevent health complaints:
- Place the tablet on a table. Never balance it on your lap or hold it in your hand (the tweezer grip);
- Buy a tablet holder or cover that can also function as a stand. This provides a better viewing angle and prevents severe craning of the neck;
- Do not work on a tablet too intensively or for too long. If you need to do a great deal of typing, use a computer that allows you to create an ergonomic workstation;
- Work in different places so that you vary your posture and movements; that way, you prevent strains.
More information
For more information about the use of tablets and laptops, please contact your faculty and/or department’s HSE-coördinator. For questions about your working conditions, you can initially contact your manager and the HSE-coördinator of your faculty or department. In addition, as a UT member of staff, you have free access to the working conditions consultation (AOS) (the UT's working conditions service). The UT organizes various activities to help you gain a better overview of your lifestyle and improve it where necessary. Check the health and well-being activities on our website.
Contact
Please contact HR Services for any further questions. Tel 053 489 8011.
For ideas, comments or changes to this page, please email webteam-hr@utwente.nl