You may have to raise your chair so your forearms and hands are at the proper angle to the keyboard. If this makes it impossible to rest your feet flat on the floor, you can use a footrest with adjustable height and tilt to make up for any gap between the floor and your feet. Or you may lower the desktop to eliminate the need for a footrest. Another option is to use a desk with a keyboard tray that’s lower than the regular work surface.
mPosition the mouse at the same height as your keyboard. Allow adequate space to use the mouse comfortably.
mArrange the monitor so the top of the screen is slightly below your eye level when you’re sitting at the keyboard. The best distance from your eyes to the screen is up to you, although most people seem to prefer 18 to 28 inches (45 to 70 cm).
mPosition the monitor to minimize glare and reflections on the screen from overhead lights and windows. You may want to use a tiltable monitor stand. The stand lets you set the monitor at the best angle for viewing, helping to reduce or eliminate glare from lighting sources you can’t move.
Avoiding fatigue
mChange your seated position, stand up, or stretch whenever you start to feel tired. Frequent short breaks are helpful in reducing fatigue.
mUse a light touch when typing or using a mouse and keep your hands and fingers relaxed.
mSome computer users may develop discomfort in their hands, wrists, or arms after intensive work without breaks. If you begin to develop chronic pain or discomfort in your hands, wrists, or arms, consult a qualified health specialist.
mAllow adequate workspace so that you can use your keyboard and mouse comfortably. Place papers or other items so you can view them easily while using your computer. A document stand may make reading papers more comfortable.
mEye muscles must work harder to focus on nearby objects. Occasionally focus your eyes on a distant object, and blink often while you work.
mClean your screen regularly. Keeping the screen clean helps reduce unwanted reflections.
20Chapter 2
