This document discusses health and safety issues related to computer use. It aims to teach about risks like back problems, repetitive strain injury, and eye strain that can result from improper computer usage. Solutions are provided such as adjustable chairs, wrist rests, frequent breaks, and suitable lighting. The document also notes that UK law requires businesses to implement measures like tiltable screens, anti-glare filters, and adjustable workstations to protect employees who use computers at work.

1. HEALTH AND SAFETY

2. LEARNING OBJECTIVE
 Learn how to stay safe when using a
computer.

3. LEARNING OUTCOMES
 I understand the risks involved when using
computers…
 I understand how to avoid risks when using
computers…
 I understand the law that aims to protect
employees when using computers in the
workplace…

4. HEALTH PROBLEMS
 Back Problems
 Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI)
 Eye Strain
 I understand the risks involved when using
computers…
 I understand how to avoid risks when using
computers…
 I understand the law that aims to protect
employees when using computers in the workplace…

5. BACK PROBLEMS
Usually due to poor posture or sitting in
an awkward position when using a
computer.
-Fully adjustable chair
-Footrests
-Screen that can be tilted
 I understand the risks involved when using
computers…
 I understand how to avoid risks when using
computers…
 I understand the law that aims to protect employees

6. REPETITIVE STRAIN INJURY
(RSI)
Usually damage to the fingers and wrists
caused by repeated movements over a long
period of time.
-Wrist rests
-Correct posture
-5 minute break every hour
 I understand the risks involved when using
computers…
 I understand how to avoid risks when using
computers…
 I understand the law that aims to protect employees

7. EYE STRAIN
Usually caused by staring at a computer
screen for a long time. Particularly in poor
light, in glare or with a flickering screen.
-Screen filters
-Use screens that don’t flicker
-Take regular breaks
-Suitable lighting and blinds fitted on windows
 I understand the risks involved when using
computers…
 I understand how to avoid risks when using
computers…
 I understand the law that aims to protect
employees when using computers in the workplace…

8. tiltable screens
anti-glare screen filters
adjustable chairs
foot supports
suitable lighting
workstations are not
cramped
when working on a computer
staff take frequent breaks
appropriate eye and
eyesight tests by an
optician
THE LAW
 I understand the risks involved when using
computers…
 I understand how to avoid risks when using
computers…
 I understand the law that aims to protect
employees when using computers in the workplace…
It is now the law that any business makes sure the
following are in place for it’s employees:

9. TASK
Create a “Health & Safety Factsheet” that could
be given to small local businesses about
health and safety issues when working with
computers.
You should include these sections:
The risks
Solutions
The Law
 I understand the risks involved when using
computers…
 I understand how to avoid risks when using
computers…
 I understand the law that aims to protect
employees when using computers in the workplace…

10. EXTENSION TASK
Create a poster to be displayed in this
classroom informing students of one of
the health & safety risks and how to
prevent it.
 I understand the risks involved when using
computers…
 I understand how to avoid risks when using
computers…
 I understand the law that aims to protect
employees when using computers in the
workplace…

11. PLENARY
 Name 3 health problems that can occur from using a
computer…
 What solution can prevent such problems occurring…
 Give one example of how the law protects employees
who use computers in the workplace…
 I understand the risks involved when using
computers…
 I understand how to avoid risks when using
computers…
 I understand the law that aims to protect
employees when using computers in the
workplace…