Computer Basics/Ergonomics/Environmental factors
Computer Basics
Basic skills and knowledge to use a computer in the workplace or at home.
An OP Online course from the National Certificate in Computing (Level 2) programme.
| Computer Basics | |
|---|---|
| Ergonomics | Introduction | Furniture | Computer equipment | Exercises | Environmental factors | Key points | Assessment |
Environmental factors
Arranging computer equipment and furniture correctly will greatly improve the work environment and reduce the risk of strain and discomfort. However other factors can contribute to a poor working environment.
Space
Every home or office workstation should have enough space for a comfortable range of movements at the desk, and easy unobstructed access to and from the work station. Avoid clutter building up on the desk or around the workstation by organising storage areas.
Lighting and glare
A comfortable work environment generally uses a combination of natural and artificial light, allowing the user to see the computer screen clearly. When lighting is not adequate, viewing a computer screen can become difficult, leading to sore eyes and sometimes headaches. Likewise, intense glare from a sunny window on to the user or the computer screen, can cause the user to adopt an awkward posture to see the screen.
