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Introduction
The use of computing devices in today's society, especially at the workplace, is completely generalized and represents the main tool for developing and managing information as well as for communicating via the Internet, email, social networks, among others.
It is thoroughly known that the use of what is called in preventive terminology “display screen equipment," hereinafter DSE, can cause health disorders in workers, mainly musculoskeletal and visual or mind fatigue related.
For this reason, in 1997 the government approved the Real Decreto 488/1997 of 23 April on the minimum safety and health requirements for the workplace and the use of DSE equipments. For the application and interpretation of this Real Decreto, the National Institute of Health and Safety at Work in Spain (INSHT) publishes an updated Technical Guide for the evaluation and the prevention of risks associated with the use of equipment including DSE (hereinafter Technical Guide of DSE). You can also find more detailed technical information at the UNE-EN 29241 and EN ISO 9241, regarding the ergonomic requirements for office work with DSE.
However, the use of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) is constantly evolving. To the traditional use of personal computers (PC), we should add now the increasingly common use of devices such as laptops, netbooks, smartphones, tablets, etc., (hereinafter ICT portable devices) in working and non-working environments.
On the one hand, the continuing improvement on ergonomics in screens (like flat screens), keyboards (ergonomic) and in different types of mice (conventional, trackball, etc.), allows to work more comfortably. Furthermore, the introduction of portable ICT devices has leaded to new ways of working, such as teleworking, which promote the reconciliation of work and family life of users.
But on the other hand, the widespread and intensive use of portable ICT devices introduces new risks and increases the probability of diseases occurrence, mainly musculoskeletal, in users.
Therefore, it is essential that users of both computer equipments, personal computers and portable ICT devices, are given sufficient information and training on:
How to use the adjustment mechanisms of furniture, computer equipment as well as the regulation of environmental conditions, in order to get the setting that best suits your needs, both postural and visual.
The importance of promoting postural change in the course of work, avoiding stillness and maintaining poor postures.
Adopting healthy working patterns to prevent fatigue.
In this course you will find all relevant and updated information on the ergonomic requirements to be met by traditional PCs and new portable ICT devices, as well as tips on the proper use and healthy habits to help prevent all discomfort or injuries related to their use.
Course Objectives
The main objectives of this course are:
- Bring into the open the risks associated with the use of the different computer equipment most commonly used (DSE and portable ICT devices).
- Set the necessary preventive measures for ergonomic conditioning of jobs dealing with computers, and to avoid health damage related to their use.
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