Computers and eye strain at work: how to avoid it
As everyone knows, if we spend many hours at the computer, our eyes tend to suffer strain, but with a few simple precautions it is possible to protect our eyesight, while avoiding unnecessary risks. So here is a series of tips to follow each day; practical suggestions designed specifically for those who spend many long hours at the computer.
1 Have regular specialist eye checks
These help to ascertain if the computer is causing a strain on the eyes which may need attention and if it is advisable to start using special glasses in order to rest the eyes at certain times of the day.
2 Set the lighting correctly
This advice applies both to the illumination of the monitor (which in general should be on medium), as well as to the light coming from outside (sunlight) and inside (artificial light from bulbs).
3 Reduce glare and reflection
In order to do so, it is essential that wall surfaces tend towards the opaque rather than shiny and that pc screens and the lenses of glasses are anti-glare.
4 Use the latest generation display
To avoid computer use straining the eyes it is essential to use a liquid crystal display. Furthermore, it is advisable to choose a monitor measuring at least 19 inches, with high resolution.
5 Adjust the screen settings
The best results can be obtained by careful adjustment of the light, colour temperature, font size and tone contrast.
6 Keep your eyes moist
The easiest way to moisten your eyes is to blink as often as possible. Furthermore, you can also use special eye-drops for best results.
7 Change focus
In this regard, there are two exercises to do: the first consists of looking away from the monitor for at least 20 minutes, while the second involves switching your gaze from close objects to far off ones.
8 Take a break
To prevent the computer causing eye strain, it is better to take short but frequent breaks during the working day (5 minutes every 2 hours should be sufficient).
9 Maintain the correct distance from the display
The screen must never be less than 20 cm from our eyes, because, otherwise, in the long run we run the risk of damaging our eyesight.
10 Wear glasses rather than contact lenses
Glasses can help avoid the computer damaging our eyes and they guarantee less stress on the pupils. It is better to keep contact lenses for free time use.
Translated by Joanne Beckwith
