Eye health and computer screens

As technology plays an ever more prominent role in our daily lives, the subject of eye health and computer usage is becoming increasingly important.

According to the London Hazards Centre, surveys of people working at a computer screen for more than six hours a day have found that over 70 per cent (and up to 91 per cent) experience visual problems. In addition, a report published by the University of California’s Berkeley School of Optometry has claimed that as many as 30 per cent of American schoolchildren are "causing undue stress on their eyes by using the computer too much", and it went on to claim a link between premature mypoia and computer use.

Extensive research has found no evidence that VDUs can cause disease or permanent damge to your eyes. However, long spells of VDU work can lead to tired eyes and discomfort. You and your employer can reduce this risk by ensuring your VDU is well positioned, properly adjusted, and that the workplace lighting is suitable. Short, frequent breaks are the best option. A five to ten minute break after an hour or so of work is about right. Although computer usage has not been conclusively shown to cause permanent damage to healthy eyes, there is evidence to suggest that small vision defects that don’t cause symptoms in everyday life may start to cause problems when carrying out more visually demanding tasks. In other words, computer screen use could exacerbate existing conditions that you may be unaware of. This is one reason why regular eye tests are so important, as early detection of vision impairment greatly decreases the chance of further damage.

Of the visual problems reported by users, the most common are eyestrain, double vision, temporary short-sightedness and visual fatigue. The term eyestrain alone can cover a range of symptoms, including irritation, soreness, photosensitivity and general tiredness.

The causes vary, but the most common are a fault in the focusing of the eye, poor eye coordination, badly positioned equipment and documents, screen glare, inadequate lighting and perhaps also infrequent maintenance of equipment.

Some of the causes easily be eliminated, for example by fitting a screen filter to cut down on glare. But one of the most effective ways of looking after your eyes is simply to stop for regular brief breaks.