Eyestrain and Fatigue

Glare is a common cause of eyestrain among computer or Video Display Terminal (VDT) users. Glare can be caused directly from light shining in your eyes or indirectly from reflections on computer monitors and other surfaces. According to a survey of the American Optometric Association (A.O.A.), almost 10 million people a year suffer from VDT-related eyestrain and physical symptoms of discomfort. And it's estimated that as many as 75% of all VDT users may suffer some eyestrain symptoms. Those figures may even be low because many people mistakenly attribute the blurred vision, burning eyes and headaches they experience to allergies or lack of sleep.

What's more, glare can also cause discomfort and reduce productivity by causing workers to sit in awkward positions in order to see the screen. And many users mistakenly assume that the back, neck and shoulder pain they suffer are solely the result of poor posture or poorly designed chairs.

Privacy

Do you ever have confidential information or other sensitive material on your computer monitor that you don't want others to see? If you do, then you need a privacy filter. 3M privacy filters make on-screen data visible only to the person directly in front of the monitor. This not only helps reduce the stress and inconvenience associated with trying to conceal these sensitive materials, but can also improve productivity by allowing you to continue working with confidential information, even when others are nearby. Click here to see how 3M computer filters can help protect your privacy.

Radiation

The electrical components of computer monitors generate various types of electromagnetic radiation. Very high frequency (VHF) radiation is emitted in minute quantities that experts conclude pose no known risk to health. However, low frequency radiation (ELF/VLF) is also emitted in small quantities. Studies are inconclusive, but the effects most often linked with long-term exposure to ELV/VLF radiation include miscarriages and childhood leukemia. 3M computer filters with the anti-radiation feature help monitors meet radiation guidelines and standards by blocking 99.9%of the electric field (E-field) ELF/VLF.

Tips for Reduced Glare

There are many ways that computer users can reduce screen glare and related eyestrain:

	Use a computer filter.
	Place your computer monitor at the recommended viewing distance of 20" (50 cm) to 32" (80 cm) away.
	Check for reflections on your screen (a dark screen works best) from light fixtures and windows. If they exist, try using blinds or dimming or diffusing the lights.
	Is there any light shining directly into your eyes? If so, rearrange your workspace to eliminate it.
	Wear dark clothing when performing computer tasks, as it does not reflect like whites and lighter colors.
	Get regular eye exams. The American Optometric Association recommends an annual checkup.
	If you need corrective lenses, tell your doctor that you work at a computer. It could make a difference in your prescription.

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