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144 | HP Jornada 600 Series User’s Guide
RSI symptoms
By following the guidelines on proper setup and use of equipment and work
environment, the risk of developing RSI can be minimized. However, if you
experience any discomfort, seek professional advice immediately. Typically,
the earlier a problem is diagnosed and treated, the easier it may be to resolve.
Avoiding RSI
Recent literature suggests that there may be a relationship between injury to
soft tissues, especially in the hands and arms, and the prolonged use of
keyboards or other equipment requiring repeated motion of the hands and
forearms. Literature also suggests that there are many other risk factors that
may increase the chances of such soft-tissue injury. You can minimize the
risk of suffering from RSI by following the guidelines detailed in this chapter.
Setting up your working environment
You must have enough space to move around and vary your position. To
avoid eye strain, the ceiling, walls, and floors should have a medium level of
reflectance (approximately 75 percent of ceiling reflectance, 40 percent of wall
reflectance, and 30 percent of floor reflectance). Try to avoid excessive
contrast between the screen and its surroundings. The work environment
should be as quiet and distraction-free as possible, with background noise
below 58 dBA. Where possible, relative air humidity should be in the range
of 40 to 60 percent. Recommended room temperature is 19 to 23 ºC (66 to
73 ºF). If possible, adjust the temperature to a comfortable level. The work-
place should be well ventilated.
Pay attention to your posture; relax your shoulders and keep your wrists
straight. This is easier when your keyboard can be positioned right under
your hands while bending your elbows at 90º. Pull your chin in to look down,
and try to lean back in the chair. The backrest should support you in the
hollow of your back.
Reducing eye strain
Have your eyes checked on a regular basis and ensure your eyeglass
prescription is suitable for working on a computer screen. Look away from
the screen from time to time. Focus on distant objects briefly. Blinking
periodically helps to lubricate the eyes.