Eye care in the digital age: Promoting health and safety

10 minute read

With the increase use in technology our eyes are under more strain than ever. With the increasing reliance on computers, tablets, and smartphones, the risk of developing eye related issues has risen significantly. The impact of prolonged screen exposure is an area of growing concern, particularly in workplaces where employees spend the majority of their day in front of a screen. Understanding the importance of eye care and promoting health and safety measures can help prevent serious health issues and improve overall wellbeing in the workplace.

The Impact of Screen Time on Eye Health

Prolonged exposure to digital screens can lead to a condition known as Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS), sometimes referred to as digital eye strain. CVS encompasses a range of eye related problems that result from focusing on a screen for extended periods. Symptoms may include:

• Eye Strain: A feeling of tiredness or discomfort in the eyes, often accompanied by a headache


• Dry Eyes: A reduction in the frequency of blinking while staring at a screen, leading to dryness and irritation


• Blurred Vision: Difficulty in focusing, especially when switching between screen and paper or looking at something far away


• Neck and Shoulder Pain: Poor posture and improper screen positioning can cause strain on the neck and shoulders.

These symptoms can vary in severity depending on the amount of screen time and the individual’s existing eye health. For employees who spend most of their day working on a computer, these issues can significantly impact productivity and quality of life.

The Importance of Regular Breaks

One of the most effective ways to combat the effects of prolonged screen exposure is by taking regular breaks. The 20-20-20 rule is a simple yet powerful guideline to follow. It suggests that every 20 minutes, you should look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. This practice helps reduce eye strain by allowing your eyes to refocus and relax.
Taking regular breaks is not only beneficial for eye health but also for overall wellbeing. Sitting for long periods can lead to a range of health issues, including back pain, obesity, and cardiovascular problems. By standing up and moving around, employees can reduce the risk of these conditions and improve circulation.

Ergonomics and Screen Positioning
Proper ergonomics plays a crucial role in preventing eye strain and promoting overall comfort in the workplace. Employers should ensure that workstations are set up to minimise strain on the eyes, neck, and shoulders. Key considerations include:

• Screen Position: The computer screen should be positioned about an arm's length away from the eyes, with the top of the screen at or slightly below eye level. This reduces the need to strain the neck or eyes to see the screen


• Lighting: Glare from windows or overhead lighting can contribute to eye strain. Adjusting the brightness of the screen and using anti-glare screens can help reduce glare. It is also important to position the screen so that it is perpendicular to windows


• Posture: Encourage employees to sit with their feet flat on the floor, knees at a right angle, and back straight against the chair. Using a chair with good lumbar support can help maintain proper posture

The Role of Hydration and Eye Care

Hydration is another crucial aspect of eye care that is often overlooked. Dehydration can exacerbate the symptoms of dry eyes, making it important for employees to drink enough water throughout the day. Providing easy access to water and encouraging regular hydration breaks can help maintain eye moisture and overall health.
In addition to hydration, employees should be encouraged to use lubricating eye drops if they experience dry eyes. These drops can help replenish moisture and reduce irritation caused by prolonged screen use.

Promoting a Health and Safety Culture in the Workplace

Incorporating eye care into the broader framework of workplace health and safety (H&S) is essential. A mixed team, comprising individuals with different needs and responsibilities, highlights the importance of a comprehensive approach to health and safety. Here are some strategies to promote eye care and overall wellbeing in the workplace:

• Education and Awareness: Regularly inform employees about the risks associated with prolonged screen time and the importance of eye care. Workshops, newsletters, and posters can be effective tools for raising awareness


• Encourage Regular Eye Exams: Encourage employees to have their eyes checked regularly. Eye exams can help detect early signs of CVS and other eye conditions, allowing for timely intervention


• Provide Access to Ergonomic Equipment: Ensure that employees have access to ergonomic chairs, adjustable desks, and other equipment that promotes good posture and reduces strain. Consider providing blue light filters or glasses to reduce exposure to harmful blue light emitted by screens


• Implement Flexible Work Policies: Where possible, allow employees to take breaks as needed and encourage a work culture that prioritises health over strict adherence to time at the desk. Flexible work policies can include standing desks, walking meetings, or even remote work options to reduce continuous screen exposure


• Create a Supportive Environment: Encourage a workplace culture that supports health and wellbeing. This includes providing resources for mental health, offering health and wellness programmes, and promoting a positive work life balance

Eye Care Beyond the Workplace

While the workplace is a significant source of screen time, it is important to recognise that many individuals continue to use screens at home. Educating employees about eye care should extend beyond the office, encouraging healthy habits in their personal lives as well. This includes limiting screen time outside of work, taking breaks during long periods of screen use, and creating a comfortable viewing environment at home.

Parents should also be informed about the importance of monitoring their children's screen time. Excessive use of digital devices by children can lead to similar eye strain issues and may affect their vision in the long term.

Conclusion

In the digital age, where screens have become an integral part of our lives, it is essential to prioritise eye care and overall health and safety in the workplace. By understanding the risks associated with prolonged screen time and implementing effective strategies to mitigate them, employers can help protect their employees' health, enhance productivity, and create a more supportive work environment.

Regular breaks, proper ergonomics, hydration, and education are key components of a comprehensive approach to eye care. By fostering a culture of health and safety, employers can ensure that their teams remain healthy, engaged, and productive in the face of the challenges posed by the modern digital workplace.

Let us all take a moment to look away from our screens, stretch, and give our eyes the break they deserve. The benefits of these simple practices can make a significant difference in our long term health and wellbeing.

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This post was brought to you by Terrence on 16 Aug 2024.

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