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Rest Breaks for Computer Operators

Suggested Precautions

The risk of computer related health problems can be reduced by: appropriate work station design (e.g., suitable desks and adjustable chairs), proper lighting (e.g., appropriate illumination and elimination of glare sources), training, and the use of suitable equipment (e.g., monitors of a suitable size for the task and workstation).

Where the computer work is intensive, (i.e., continuous keyboarding for an hour or longer, uninterrupted by other activities), good work station design should be augmented by having the operator take a 5 minute break away from computer operation in each hour. Employers do have the general duty to take every reasonable precaution in the circumstances for the protection of workers. The 5-minute breaks should not be accumulated. This is because short, frequent breaks are much more effective in preventing excessive fatigue and possible injury than longer, less frequent breaks.

At management's discretion, the 5-minute break can mean a period of other work, not involving a computer, or a full break during which the operator does no work. Ideally, the alternate work should be as dissimilar from computer work as possible.
( www.labour.gov.on.ca.)

Your Assistive Technology Specialists at Access Technologies, Inc. can help with the understanding of recommended work space environments. There may be no need for adjustments to the current space, simply the recommendation to follow the above mentioned break patterns; there may be a simple correction of a monitor height; there may be a situation that needs more specialized intervention, perhaps the individual works on multiple projects and needs varying heights for their worksurface, in which case an electric height adjustable worktable would be the solution; in all cases, ATI would encourage the short break from repetitive movement in 45 to 55 minute intervals.

Call ATI at 1-880-677-7512 and let us schedule a time to discuss your specific needs.