IMPACT OF HEALTH SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT ON ICT AT WORKPLACE

When we talk about HSE, we simply means the things that has to be done to keep people healthy and safe when they are at work.

HEALTH

There are various health problem that are associated with computer such as stress, eyestrain and injuries to the wrists, neck and back. So therefore it is important for employers to protect workers that are involve in ICT work.

SYMPTOM OF WORKERS

  1. Burning of itching eyes
  2. Blurring and double vision
  3. Headache
  4. Fatigue
  5. Nausea

SOLUTIONS

  1. Use monitor that don’t flicker
  2. Have blinds at the window so that the sun doesn’t shine directly to the screen.
  3. Use suitable lights disperse light evenly and don’t shine on the screen.
  4. Use a screen filter
  5. Keep your eyes at least 18 inches from the screen.
  6. Regularly look away from the screen and focus on something in the distance.
  7. Take breaks, 5mins every hour
  8. Have regular eye tests and wear glasses if prescribed.

N/B:  Many computer users suffer serious back problem because of poor posture or awkward position while sitting at a computer.

WAYS OF AVOIDING BACK PAIN

  1. Use a fully adjustable chair.
  2. A footrest
  3. Use a monitor that is adjustable so that your neck doesn’t have to bend.
  4. Take regular break and walk about
  5. Sit with your back straight and head up

REPETITIVE STRAIN INJURY (RSI)

Repetitive strain injury (RSI) are injuries that occurred from damage to the finger, wrist and other part of the body due to repeated movements over a long period of time.

SYMPTONS OF RSI

In the Arms and hand; Aching, pain in arm/wrists even after rest, weakness, swelling, tenderness, numbness, pins and needles or burning sensation.

In the shoulder and neck; stiffness and aching.

SAFETY

Workplace can be dangerous so it is very important to take precaution while at work.

PRECAUTION TO TAKE

  1. No wire around to be tipped over
  2. No electrical socket overloaded
  3. Electrical equipment should be tested at least once a year
  4. Bags and obstacles should be out of the way
  5. Staff should follow the safety regulations
  6. Food/drinks should not be near any machine, laptop etc.
  7. Fire exits should be clearly marked
  8. Fire extinguisher should be available

ENVIRONMENT

Taking care of our environment is very important because we are surrounded by it.

Ways to care for your environment

  1. Develop a culture
  2. Identify risk
  3. Know that accident are predictable hence preventable

EMPLOYER OBLIGATION

According to Health and safety at work act of 1974 which state that employers must provide safe working environment for anyone working with computers. So it is important that employers must provide;

  1. Provide tilt able screen
  2. Provide adjustable chair
  3. Provide foot supports
  4. Make sure there is sufficient space to work
  5. Make sure lighting is suitable
  6. Ensure employees have sufficient breaks
  7. Employer should pay for regular eye tests for employees.

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