Tips for the safe use of Laptops
As the school year approaches parents and students alike are shopping for the best deals in laptops and portable computers. While laptops offer a great degree of portability they also intruduce some health and safety challenges if used for extended periods of time. If laptops are used as primary computers the U.S. Center for Disease Control (CDC) suggests using a docking station to overcome laptop ergonomics design flaws and to provide individual adjustability. A docking station, a large monitor and a separate keyboard can provide a proper ergonomic setting in a dorm or bedroom, but how do you protect the user outside of that environment? The following are a list of best practices when using a laptop in a non-workstation environment. These tips will help the user minumize the risk of encountering a repetitive stress injury (RSI).
Carry an external mouse
The majority of all computer-related ergonomic injuries are a result of mouse usage. The built-in pointing device on most laptops is not intended for long-durations of use. (like 3 day marathon study sessions before finals) A better options is to use an external mouse and alternate between the two pointing devices to reduce the chances of injury. Most new laptops feature Bluetooth wireless support which allows for the use of an external wireless mouse.
Avoid long work sessions at coffeeshops
Most cafe tables or counters are designed for eating and are therefore too high for computer keyboard use. The best advice in this situation is to find the most comfortable lounge-type chair and utilize laptop desk. While not ideal for sustained use, it will allow you to angle the laptop screen so that you can avoid neck strain. Many laptop desks also feature cooling fans which help keep both laptop and user cool when used in this type of setting.
Make laptop use more comfy with pillows and blankets
The use of a pillow as a method of back support can prevent back pain and insure a more upright posture. It also recommend that if using a lounge type chair or sofa that a foot rest of foot table be utilized. In this environment the use of a laptop desk or laptop cooling pad is recommended to avoid excess heat directed towards the user and laptop. The same is true if the laptop user is working from a bed. Pillows are great for both back and lap support, just be sure the laptop cooling fans are not obstructed in any way.
Use portable keyboards to minumize wrist injury
Compact and portable keyboards are also good choices for laptop users seeking to avoid a hunched over posture typical of some laptop users. If possible invest in a laptop holder that will allow you to adjust the screen to an elevated height more akin to a properly configured workstation.
Laptop holders reduce head and neck strain
A laptop holder will also help prevent a downward tilt in your head and neck areas, preventing neck and back pain form occuring.
In conclusion the right configuration and accessories make it is possible to create a portable work environment that is both safe and productive for laptop users.
