NEEDING A LITTLE ERGONOMICS FOR YOUR EYES?
	"Computer-related eye and vision problems are on the increase and it's not just workaholics who are at risk." More Innovation stories					Computer-related eye and vision problems are on the increase and it's not just workaholics who are at risk. Overseas studies show a direct link between the use of computers and the growing number of vision-related health problems, such as eye strain, headaches, neck pain, blurred vision, light sensitivity and irritated eyes (see attached research summaries). According to the American Optometric Association, more than 70% of computer users suffer from these symptoms and a mere two hours a day in front of a computer can put some people at risk. 3M spent more than a decade researching the effects of office lighting and computer use and has highlighted glare from computer screens as a major cause of vision and eye problems. As a result of its research 3M designed a computer screen filter which is, to date, the only glare reduction filter in the world proven to elevate a computer monitor's anti-reflection performance and, in some cases, raise it to the next, "higher-class" level. Having already passed the most stringent international testing methods for monitors in bright environments,1 3M™ Polarising Filters were recently awarded the exclusive, international "Q-Mark"2 symbol of quality for the safety and everyday suitability of electronic display products. 3M Senior Technical Service Engineer Saya Wahrlich says 3M™ Polarising Filters are currently the only anti-glare filters to hold this accreditation. "We designed Polarising Filters with computer users' comfort and health in mind. Achieving this exclusive accreditation proves that we're on the right track and that we are committed to leading the way in ergonomic innovation," she says. The Approved Code of Practice for the Safe Use of Visual Display Units in the Occupational Safety and Health Service's (OSH) 1992 Health and Safety in Employment Act, states that screen glare filters help prevent the problem of reflections from monitors. New Zealand Department of Labour Occupational Health Nurse and Health and Safety Inspector Natalie Adams says it is important to be aware of the lighting around computer monitors and to minimise glare. "The most common sources of office glare are from ambient light sources, such as sunlight from windows and overhead lighting. The light shines on computer screens reducing contrast and creating annoying, bright reflections. As a result, people tend to squint their eyes or twist their necks rather than fixing the problem by minimising glare," she says. OSH offers a number of suggestions to avoid computer-related eye and vision problems. In addition to using computer filters, other helpful tips include: Position your monitor and work-related papers at the right height and angle; Adjust your monitor distance to at least 20 inches from your eyes; Relocate your computer monitor from in front of windows and bright light sources. For more information about 3M Polarising Filters visit www.3m.com/cws The stringent testing method referred to is the same criteria used to test an actual computer monitor - ISO 9241. These are the standards for Office Work with Video Display Units, establishing the image quality requirements for monitors in bright environments that may cause reflections. The International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO) is a worldwide federation of national standards' bodies from over 130 countries worldwide. It's mission is to promote the development of international industry standardisation, recommending and promoting product and service standards to make life easier and safer. The Q-Mark is awarded by the most prestigious testing laboratory in the world, TUV Rheinland in Germany, only to products which fit the most stringent performance criteria for electronic display filters. The company is recognised worldwide for its reliable and accurate product conformance and safety testing capabilities. It specialises in helping manufacturers comply with global market regulations through product safety testing and quality assurance certifications. The Q-Mark addresses ergonomics, usability and safety requirements.

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