HEALTH, SAFETY AND ETHICS OF USING ICT TOOLS

Health , Safety and Ethics of Using ICT tools

There are various health problems associated with the regular use of computers, such as stress, eyestrain and injuries to the wrists, neck and back.

Possible Health Hazards Associated with Long-term Exposure to ICT tools

Radio

Television

Mobile Phones

Public Address Systems

Computers

 COMMON PROBLEMS AND SOLUTIONS TO REGULAR USE OF ICT TOOLS .

1.Eye Strain

Eyes can become strained after staring at a computer screen for a long time, particularly if working in bad light, in glare or with a flickering screen.

Fortunately, eyestrain is usually a temporary problem.

Symptoms include:

• Burning or itching eyes
• Blurring or double vision
• Headache
• Fatigue
• Nausea

Solutions

• Use monitors which don't flicker
• Have blinds at the windows so that the sun doesn't shine directly on the screen
• Use suitable lights that disperse light evenly and don't shine on the screen
• Use a screen filter
• Keep your eyes at least 18 inches from the screen
• Regularly look away from the screen and focus on something in the distance
• Take regular breaks - at least 5 minutes break every hour
• Have regular eye tests and wear glasses if prescribed

2. Backache & Neck Pain

Many computer users suffer serious back and neck problems.  This is probably due to a poor posture or an awkward position while sitting at a computer.

Some of the things that people can do to help avoid back pain are:

• 1.Use a fully adjustable chair. The height of the chair and the seat position should be easy to change.

• 2.Use a foot rest so that the legs are kept at a more natural angle

• 3.Use a monitor which is adjustable. Position it so that the neck doesn't have to bend.
• 4.Take regular breaks and walk about.
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3. Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI)

Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI) is damage to the fingers, wrists and other parts of the body due to repeated movements over a long period of time.

Symptoms

In the arms and hands:

• aching
• pain in arms/wrists even after rest
• weakness
• swelling
• tenderness
• numbness
• pins and needles or burning sensation

In the shoulders and neck:

• stiffness
• aching

Causes

• Typing or using the mouse for long periods of time
• Using too much force on your fingers when typing
• Using a poorly designed keyboard
• Workstation or chair is the wrong height so arms are in an unnatural position

Solution

• Ensure workstation and chair are the correct height
• Support wrists by using wrist rests
• Keep elbows close to your sides
• Five minute break from typing at least every hour