User Manual
5
Healthy Computing Guide
Introduction
This guide is designed to help you be more comfortable and productive while using your
computer. It may also help you reduce your risk of experiencing painful and disabling injuries
or disorders described in the Health Warning earlier in this manual.
It only takes a moment to read, but the benets can be lasting.
For information about arranging your workstation and developing habits that may help to reduce your
risk of experiencing an MSD, read this “Healthy Computing Guide.” Because there are a variety of factors
that may contribute to MSDs, this guide cannot provide everything you need to know to prevent an MSD
or reduce your risk of experiencing one. For some people, following the suggestions may reduce their risk
of experiencing an MSD. For others, it may not. However, many people experience greater comfort and
productivity when following these suggestions. Keep in mind that this guide is not a substitute for the
advice of a qualied health professional or an employer health policy or program. If you have questions
about how your own lifestyle, activities, or medical or physical condition may be related to MSDs, see a
qualied health professional.
Position Yourself
Whether you are working or playing, it is important to avoid awkward postures and position your body
comfortably. Not only can this improve your overall productivity, it may help you avoid musculoskeletal
disorders (MSDs). Keep in mind that changing your posture during extended tasks may also help you avoid
discomfort and fatigue.
When working or playing at the computer, adapt your surroundings and arrange your computing equipment
to promote a comfortable and relaxed body posture. Setting up your workstation to avoid discomfort
depends on your unique body size and work environment. However, the following suggestions may help
to provide you with a more comfortable environment.
To support your back, try the following:
● Use a chair that supports your lower back (see detail
1
).
● Adjust your work surface and chair height to assume a
comfortable and natural body posture (see detail
2
).
To promote comfortable leg postures, try the following:
● Clear away items from beneath your desk to allow comfortable
leg positioning and movement.
● Use a footrest if your feet do not rest comfortably on the oor.