STFC will ensure that users are able to plan their activities at work so that their daily work using DSE is periodically interrupted by breaks or changes of activity.
Intensive DSE work can cause visual discomfort that may in turn lead to problems such as headaches and even mental stress.
Changes of Activity or Rest Breaks for Users
Breaking up long spells of DSE work helps prevent fatigue and may prevent work related upper limb problems. Where possible, employers should include spells of other work, e.g. telephone calls, filing, photocopying, laboratory work etc. in the user's work activities.
If varying the type of work is not possible, STFC managers should plan for users to take breaks, away from the screen if possible, typically 5-10 minutes every hour. Short breaks, e.g. walking to the printer is good for your health. In addition, looking into the distance is good for your eyesight when taking these mini breaks.
Those responsible for organising user's work (in some cases this will be the individual themselves) should consider some of the following ways of reducing any health risks associated with the work:
- Varying the user's tasks to include other duties
- Educating users to stretch and change position periodically
- Taking breaks before DSE users become tired
- Making sure users understand that short frequent breaks are better than longer, infrequent ones
- Offering individual control over work patterns
- Users should be discouraged from working intensely for too long
- Imposed rest breaks may sometimes be the only solution
