Public Servant Lifestyle

The Health & Safety Executive (HSE) has published new research findings into musco- skeletal disorder's (MSD’s) and the safe use of computers.

New research to help reduce the incidence and number of working days lost to musculoskeletal disorders (MSD’s) among computer users has been published by the Health & Saftey Executive (HSE).

Scientists at the Universities of Surrey and Loughborough carried out the research examining the use of different types of non-keyboard input device (NKID) such as the mouse, trackball and touch screen, and the problems associated with using them.

They found that although many alternative devices are available, the mouse is by far the most common NKID used with desktop computers and is extensively used for routine office tasks such as word processing and email. Most participants in the research said they had not received any training or information specific to the safe use of keyboard input devices - and a large number of users worked for prolonged periods without a break - despite most having some discretion over this.

Pain or discomfort related to use of Keyboard Input Devices (KID’s) was reported by about one in five respondents to the main survey. Problems ranged from unsuitable NKID design such as awkward shape; size; jittery movement; and over-complex controls, to insufficient desk space and lack of cleaning or maintenance.

Comfort Is L-shaped

The laboratory investigation found that supporting your arm while using a mouse seems to be best and a curved (L-shaped) desk was rated as more comfortable than a straight rectangular desk.

This project was part of HSE's ongoing programme of research on musculoskeletal disorders. The results of this and other projects will feed into the development of the HSC's Priority Programme on musculoskeletal disorders. Speaking at an Edinburgh seminar on Managing Musculoskeletal Disorders (organised by the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health Joint Scottish Branches, in association with HSE Scotland), Health and Safety Commissioner Margaret Burns said: "In publishing these findings we must emphasise that grief and pain are not an inevitable part of working with a computer mouse."

Work-Related Illness

The MSD Priority Programme aims to reduce the incidence of work-related illness involving musculoskeletal disorders, and reduce the number of working days lost due to these disorders. HSC/E aims to achieve the targets set out in the programme by communicating effectively with all stakeholders - including employers, employees and health professionals - to encourage ownership of the plan and its outputs, keeping them informed, and giving them opportunities to contribute. With ongoing consultation the HSC/E will be revising the strategy as necessary.

Health and Safety Commissioner Margaret Burns says: "This research, which feeds into the development of the Health and Safety Commission's Priority Programme on MSD's, has highlighted factors that employers and users should take into account when planning work with NKID. These are to avoid working for prolonged periods without a break or change of activity, and to provide appropriate equipment, furniture and NKID-specific training and information".

Malcolm Darvill, Head of Ergonomics Policy at HSE, added: "Working with a computer mouse is covered by the Health and Safety (Display Screen Equipment) Regulations. HSE is now using these research findings to produce revised guidance on the Regulations, due for publication next February. This will help employers comply with the law by giving specific practical advice on how to work comfortably with a mouse or other NKID."

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