Laptop Computer Ergonomic Safety

Laptop Computer Ergonomic Safety

Using computers at work and at home has become an integral part of the life of many state employees. An office set up with ergonomic principles in mind can help protect the health and safety of the person who works there. Unfortunately, ergonomic principles are often defeated or ignored when a laptop is used in an office or in the field.

Laptop users often find themselves working out of home, their car, a client’s home or business or some type of public place. The benefit of a laptop is that you can work wherever and whenever you need to. Your body often pays a price for this flexibility however, because field worksites are rarely designed with ergonomics in mind or conducive to sound ergonomic practices.

As a laptop user, you need to become very conscious of the positions of your wrists, arms, back and neck whenever you use your laptop. As you use your laptop, if you experience any discomfort or pain from these areas of your body, you need to change your body’s position. When you use your laptop, place your laptop and yourself in such a position that your wrists don’t bend while you are typing, your arms hang or rest comfortably, sit upright without slouching and adjust the screen so you avoid bending your neck down or forward too much.

Here are some specific suggestions you might try:

If your laptop has no wrist resting space, try a rolled-up towel in front of the keyboard.
Try using a lumbar support cushion or pillow at your lower back.
Carry a portable, adjustable footrest with you to keep your feet from dangling.
If your work surface is too low, build it up with a large book or telephone book.
If your work surface is too high, try a stool (one with back support), use a cushion or stand up.
If you regularly work out of your car, consider getting a removable "vehicle desk."
To reduce eyestrain, periodically blink or close your eyes. Also, regularly focus on an object at least 20 feet away from you.
Try using Velcro to attach a document holder to the top edge of your laptop’s screen.
To reduce glare, make a hood that shades your computer by taping together four pieces of cardboard.
If you regularly use your laptop in your office, consider connecting your laptop to an external keyboard and monitor. Remember to have the monitor and keyboard platform adjusted to fit you.

More importantly, whether you are using a laptop or desktop, take periodic breaks from your work. Get up and away from the computer. Walk around and do some stretching exercises. Give your muscles a chance to relax and recover. It only takes a minute.

William McPeck
Director, Employee Health & Safety