Use of Laptops

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1. Introduction The use of laptop or notebook computers is widespread and many people use them regularly as part of the work process. Regulation 1(4) (d) of the Health and Safety (Display Screen Equipment) Regulations 1992 states that the regulations do not apply to or in relation to portable systems not in prolonged use. However, where a laptop is used regularly by people as a significant part of their day-to-day work, then these regulations will apply. In many cases employers will use the “one-hour” rule i.e. if a laptop is used continually for one hour or more then the employee will be classified as a user. Employers therefore, should give consideration as to the use of laptops, particularly if there is a realistic alternative i.e. Use of a desktop system for personal use or “Hot desking” for intermittent use where no permanent workstation is available. 2. Risks relating to the use of Laptop computers. There are three main categories of risk associated with laptop use: a) Equipment design b) The environment that they are to be used in. c) Physical demands upon the user. a) The equipment is designed for portable use and as a result compromises have had to be made. This leads to smaller keyboards and screens, differing pointer devices or mouse, as well as lack of adjustability. As a result, laptops tend to be uncomfortable in prolonged use. b) The work environment where laptops are used tends to be less “user friendly” than the office environment. Areas are often constricted, such as on trains, in cars, at home etc, which does not allow the user to work comfortably for any lengthy period of time. c) The arrangement of the keyboard and screen usually leads to the user working with their head and shoulders bent forward, adopting an awkward arm, wrist and hand position in order to key information in or to read the screen. Wherever possible the good practices

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