Health Concerns on the Use of Notebook Computers

Title: Final Report on Use of Notebook Computers and Related Ergonomics and Occupational Safety and Health Problems
Author: Occupational Health and Safety Council
Publisher: Occupational Health and Safety Council
URL: http://www.oshc.org.hk/download/research/56/2/Final%20Report_%20Notebook%20Project-Ergonomics%20and%20OSH(Eng).pdf


Abstract
This report is the output of the research conducted by Professor Chetwyn C.H. Chan of
Department of Rehabilitation Sciences of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University and his Ergonomic and Human Performance Laboratory. The research attempts to gain an understanding on the utilization situations of notebook computers and the associated
Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) issues among the notebook computer users, and then suggest recommendations for enhancing the occupational safety and health for the use of notebook computers.

With the use of ergonomics and other tools for occupational safety and health, the research came up with recommendations that would fit different kinds of users in several occupational settings.

Three-point Learning
1. A short break from using the computer matters.

2. Different kinds of notebook computer bags offer varying effects on users.

3. Employers should always provide sufficient occupational safety and health training to employees.

Application
Too much use of computer poses health risks to users. Everyone should be made aware of these risks and be informed of the steps on how to avoid them. There are several ergonomic methods and tools that users ought to know to lessen health risks posed by computers.