Lighting Your Workspace

Appropriate lighting increases your comfort and productivity, and it’s good for your eyes.

Arrange your computer and light sources to minimize glare and bright reflections.

Position the monitor so that any windows in the room face the sides of the monitor, not the front or back. This will help reduce glare.

For working at the computer, indirect or shielded lighting is best, and it should light your entire office equally. Make sure the lighting is not too bright, because this can make your eyes tired from continually readjusting between the relative dimness of the screen and the bright surroundings. You can use window blinds, shades, or drapes to control the amount of daylight in the room or reduce overhead lighting by turning off or dimming the lights.

Here is a simple way you can test your lighting. While looking at the screen, use your hand to shield your eyes from the brightest light source in the room (such as a window or overhead light). If you feel a sense of relief, no matter how small, your current lighting is too bright.

Using the Keyboard and Mouse

Constant use of a keyboard, mouse, or any pointing device can lead to a variety of aches and strains. To prevent injury, keep your hands

relaxed and rest them frequently.

Try to keep your fingers parallel with your forearms to prevent straining your wrists. Adjust the angle of the keyboard so the slope is no more than 25 degrees. (The keyboard has legs on the bottom which allow you to adjust the angle.)

3 - 4 Using Your Computer