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NEC PowerMate eco Getting Started Guide 13
How to Set Up a Healthy Work Environment
Prolonged or improper use of a computer workstation may pose a risk
of serious injury. To reduce your risk of injury, set up and use your computer in the manner
described in this section.
Contact a doctor if you experience pain, tenderness, swelling, burning, cramping, stiffness,
throbbing, weakness, soreness, tingling and/or numbness in the hands, wrists, arms, shoulders,
neck, back, and/or legs.
Making Your Computer Work for You
Computers are everywhere. More and more people sit at computers for longer periods of time.
The following information explains how to set up your computer to fit your physical needs. This
information is based on ergonomics — the science of making the workplace fit the needs of the
worker.
Some nerve, tendon, and muscle disorders (musculoskeletal disorders) may be associated with
repetitive activities, improper work environments, and incorrect work habits. Examples of
musculoskeletal disorders that may be associated with certain forms of repetitive activities
include: carpal tunnel syndrome, tendinitis, tenosynovitis, de Quervain’s tenosynovitis, and
trigger finger, as well as other nerve, tendon, and muscle disorders.
Although some studies have shown an association between increasing hours of keyboard use and
the development of some musculoskeletal disorders, it is still unclear whether working at a
computer causes such disorders. Some doctors believe that using the keyboard and mouse may
aggravate existing musculoskeletal disorders.
Some people are more susceptible to developing these disorders due to preexisting conditions or
psychosocial factors (see “Preexisting Conditions and Psychosocial Factors” later in the
document).
To reduce your risk of developing these disorders, follow the instructions in this document. If
you experience discomfort while working at your computer or afterwards, even at night, contact
a doctor as soon as possible. Signs of discomfort might include pain, tenderness, swelling,
burning, cramping, stiffness, throbbing, weakness, soreness, tingling and/or numbness in the
hands, wrists, arms, shoulders, neck, back, and/or legs.