A Healthy Computing Environment

Setting Up your Office: There are many factors to consider - Compromise will be necessary.

BUT DON'T compromise on the factors which will make you work in uncomfortable and damaging positions

Desk

Be realistic about the desk, file and shelf space you will need when designing your desk.

Is there space for your research material and the notes you need to copy? It might make sense to reserve this space with a substantial work of reference. You might also resort to a physical barrier to prevent the encroachment of other paperwork into your computer arena on a large desk.

Be prepared to change things round.

As the workload changes, reorganise your desk. This could be through the day, through the week or seasonal. It helps to prevent one part of you taking the strain for too long.

Specialist computer desks have much to recommend them.

They present all the equipment at the right height. But most designs provide little space for your working notes. If you decide to opt for the kitchen worktop, make very sure you have a chair and footrest to match as the surface will otherwise be too high.

Access to information

If you are writing up historic research you will need much more space than someone writing a novel. Within arm's-reach you should find the items that you need to use and replace frequently. If the Internet is your research engine, you need to understand the risks of RSI when using pointing devices.

Privacy

Both at home and at work, most people prefer that their screen is not overlooked. If you are on a thoroughfare it is inevitable that people will glance at your work on their way past. This aspect is seldom given priority but it can be stressful as well as distracting.

Lighting

Natural light

Regrettably, sunshine is an unreliable and mobile source of lighting. It can be good for the soul but makes it difficult to control the environment if there is too much window space.

Office windows need blinds. Blinds diffuse the light and allow you to regulate the amount of light entering the room. Curtains are second best.

At low sun angles and at higher latitudes, the sun can flood an office with sunlight making it difficult to manage contrast or reflections without adjustable blinds.

Walls can also be decorated and furnished to minimise reflection.

Screens and partitions can be positioned to limit the undesirable morning and evening light.

Natural light, and an outside view, can be good for the soul but difficult to manage in your office, so be prepared to use artificial light. That room that never sees the sun could be ideal for your workroom.

Unnatural (artificial) lighting

Eyes work best in good light. They don't have to work so hard focusing accurately.

To achieve the recommended light levels around your workspace you would have to illuminate your office like a film studio.

Instead, invest in a good local light. It needs to be able to illuminate the whole area of your notes and keyboard.

Normal bulbs produce a lot of heat so select a low energy or fluorescent light.

Spotlights are unsuitable as they cast shadows and produce contrast in the working area which is what you are trying to avoid to make it as restful as possible on your eyes.

If you move your research papers about, the light needs to be mobile.

Electricity supply

Computing equipment is not power hungry. However, there are special regulations in the UK if you want to link up a significant number of computers on one circuit. It is a feature of the design of computer power supplies that they have high protective conductor current which needs to be handled with additional earth conductors.

Static electricity

In the early days of computers, many people required a wristband to prevent them picking up a charge. Equipment and office furnishings have evolved and this is not often reported as a problem now. However, for some people and in dry climates measures still need to be taken. This is a neglected area but needs to be taken seriously.

You in your environment

Temperature is important: 16°C is reckoned to be workable and 25°C too hot.

Breathing may be automatic but we often hold our breath, or take shallow breaths, when under stress. It is also common for the body to stiffen and for muscles to tense in stressful environments.

So, take a few moments to relax and take some deep breaths to relax if you find yourself tensing up.

Stretch by leaning back in your chair, reaching up with your arms and straightening your legs.

What is Ergonomics?

The scientific study of the interaction of humans and their workplace. Adapt the workspace to fit the person rather than vice versa.

Questions you should ask

If the answer to any of these is No, there is an issue that need addressing.

	Does your workspace allow easy access and can you vary your position?
	Have you been shown how to adjust your monitor and seat heights?
	Are you allowed and encouraged to adapt your working environment?
	Are you free to take breaks and vary your activity?
	Do you have access to equipment such as wrist or foot rests and document holders?
	Is the temperature at least 16°C and less than 25°C?
	High humidity is also bad for you and your electronic equipment.
	Have you had your eyes checked?

WritersServices.com Factsheet - Your Working Environment