HSE publishes research on safe computer use

HSE Press Release E214:02 - 15 November 2002

New research to help reduce the incidence and number of working days lost to musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) among computer users, has been published by the Health and Safety 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 touchscreen, 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 NKIDs 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 NKIDs 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.

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.

Speaking at a seminar on MSDs in Edinburgh, 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.

"This research, which feeds into the development of the Health and Safety Commission's Priority Programme on MSDs, 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."

Notes to editors

1. Margaret Burns and Malcolm Darvill spoke at a Seminar on Managing Musculoskeletal Disorders, organised by the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health Joint Scottish Branches in association with HSE Scotland. It was held at Murrayfield Stadium, Edinburgh on 15 November 2002 and chaired by Stewart Campbell, HSE Scottish Director.

2. 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 Health and Safety Commission's Priority Programme on musculoskeletal disorders.

3. The 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. HSE aims to achieve the targets in the Programme by communicating effectively with all stakeholders (such as employers, employees and health professionals) to encourage ownership of the plan and its outputs, keeping them informed, and giving them opportunities to contribute, revising the strategy as necessary. For more information about the MSD Priority Programme please see the MSD web pages on the HSE site: http://www.hse.gov.uk/msd

4. The research was funded by HSE and undertaken by the Robens Centre for Health Ergonomics (University of Surrey) and the Health and Safety Ergonomics Unit (Loughborough University). Full details of the findings can be found in HSE's research report RR 45 entitled Ergonomics of Using a Mouse or Other Non-Keyboard Input Device.

'Ergonomics of using a mouse or other non-keyboard input device', Research Report 045, is available on HSE website at http://www.hse.gov.uk/research/

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