Safety and Comfort |
Chapter 12
Safety and Comfort
a WARNING: There may be a risk of serious physical injuries from working at your computer workstation. Read and follow the recommendations in this section to minimize the risk of injury and to increase your comfort.
Some studies have suggested that long periods of typing, improper workstation setup, incorrect work habits, stressful work conditions and relationships, or problems in your personal health may be linked to injuries. These injuries could include carpal tunnel syndrome, tendinitis, tenosynovitis, and other musculoskeletal disorders.
The warning signs of these disorders can occur in the hands, wrists, arms, shoulders, neck, or back, and can include:
•Numbness, burning, or tingling
•Soreness, aching, or tenderness
•Pain, throbbing, or swelling
•Tightness or stiffness
•Weakness or coldness
Symptoms may be felt during typing, while using a mouse, or at other times when no work with the hands is being performed, including during the night when these symptoms might awaken you. If you experience these symptoms, or any other persistent or recurring pain or discomfort that you think may be related to using a computer, you should promptly consult a qualified physician and, if available, your company’s health and safety department. The earlier a problem is properly diagnosed and treated, the less chance there is that it will progress to a disabling condition.
The following pages describe proper workstation setup, posture, and health and work habits for computer users. In addition, this Guide contains product safety information applicable to all Compaq products.