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User’s Manual
GETTING S TARTED
❑ Your knees should be slightly higher than your hips. If necessary, use a foot
rest to raise the level of your knees to ease pressure on the back of your thighs.
❑ Adjust the back of your chair so it supports the lower curve of your spine.
❑ Sit straight so that your knees, hips and elbows form approximately 90 degree
angles when you work. Do not slump forward or lean back too far.
Lighting
Proper lighting can improve legibility of the display and reduce eye strain.
❑ Position the computer so that sunlight or bright indoor lighting does not reflect
off the screen. Use tinted windows, shades or other screen to eliminate sun
glare.
❑ Avoid placing the computer in front of bright light that could shine directly in
your eyes.
❑ If possible, use soft, indirect lighting in your computer work area. Use a lamp to
illuminate your documents or desk, but be sure to position the lamp so that it
does not reflect off the display or shine in your eyes.
Work habits
A key to avoiding discomfort or injury from repetitive strain is to vary your activi-
ties. If possible, schedule a variety of tasks into your work day. If you must spend
long periods at the computer, finding ways to break up the routine can reduce
stress and improve your efficiency.
❑ Sit in a relaxed posture. Good positioning of your chair and equipment as
described earlier can reduce tension in your shoulders or neck and ease back
strain.
❑ Vary your posture frequently.
❑ Occasionally stand up and stretch or exercise briefly.
❑ Exercise and stretch your wrists and hands a number of times during the day.
❑ Frequently, look away from the computer and focus your eyes on a distant
object for several seconds, for example 30 seconds every 15 minutes.
❑ Take frequent short breaks instead of one or two long breaks, for example, two
or three minutes every half hour.
❑ Have your eyes examined regularly and visit a doctor promptly, if you suspect
you might be suffering from a repetitive strain injury.