With the rise of computers and other digital devices, visual ergonomics in the workplace has become an increasingly important area. Providing an environment that supports employees’ eye health improves well-being and can increase productivity and reduce absenteeism. The aim of visual ergonomics is to adapt the work environment to the visual needs of workers, thereby minimising eye strain and preventing vision problems.
What is Visual Ergonomics?
Visual ergonomics involves applying ergonomic principles to create a work environment that supports eye health. This involves properly configuring monitors, lighting and viewing distances, as well as taking regular breaks to rest the eyes. These factors are crucial for reducing digital eye strain, a common issue in modern workplaces.
Challenges of the Digital Age
As digitisation increases, many workers spend hours in front of computer screens, which can lead to computer vision syndrome (CVS). Symptoms of CVS include dry eyes, blurred vision, headaches and discomfort in the eyes. According to the American Optometric Association, up to 90% of people who spend more than three hours a day in front of a computer may experience some of these symptoms. These problems affect not only eye health, but also productivity and job satisfaction.
Proper Lighting
Lighting in the workplace plays a crucial role in visual ergonomics. Insufficient or excessive light can cause eye strain. Natural light is the best option, but it is not always available. In these cases, it is important to use artificial lights that mimic natural light and adjust the intensity to avoid glare on computer monitors. Positioning the light source to the side, rather than directly above or behind the screen, can help minimise glare and reflections.
Monitor Setup
Proper monitor setup is essential for visual ergonomics. The monitor should be positioned approximately one arm’s length (around 50-70 cm) away from the eyes and at a height that puts the top of the screen at eye level or slightly below. This will help reduce strain on the neck and eyes. In addition, adjusting the brightness and contrast of the monitor to comfortable levels can prevent eye strain.
Posture and Distance
Proper posture is also essential for eye health. An ergonomic chair that supports the spine and allows for height adjustments can help maintain correct posture. The distance between the eyes and the screen should be sufficient to prevent the worker from needing to lean forward or backward. Using a document holder can reduce the need for head and eye movement between the paper and the screen.
Regular Breaks
Regular breaks are also an effective strategy for preventing eye fatigue. The 20-20-20 rule is widely recommended: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet (about 6 metres) away for at least 20 seconds. This helps to relax the eye muscles and reduce accumulated tension. In addition, getting up and moving around regularly can help improve circulation and reduce muscle stiffness.
Assistive Technology
The use of assistive technology can also play an important role in visual ergonomics. Tools such as blue light filters, text magnification software and screen readers can help reduce eye strain and adapt the work environment to individual visual needs. Many operating systems and software programmes already incorporate these features, making them accessible to everyone.
Education and Awareness
It is crucial to promote education and awareness about visual ergonomics among employees. Training sessions on proper workspace setup, eye hygiene practices, and the importance of regular breaks can make a big difference. Employees who are well-informed are more likely to adopt practices that protect their eye health and improve their productivity.
Conclusion
Visual ergonomics in the workplace is essential for protecting workers’ eye health and increasing work efficiency. Simple adjustments, such as proper monitor setup, adequate lighting, regular breaks, and education on best practices, can prevent visual fatigue and other vision problems. Investing in visual ergonomics not only improves employee well-being, but also promotes significant organisational benefits, including increased productivity and reduced absenteeism.
