A certain business center provides computer and internet services to the public. The owner is concerned that there is no restraint on consumption of food an...

This scenario tests workstation safety, computer maintenance and the health risks of computer use.

(a) Two safety precautions to protect workstations from food and drinks.

• Prohibit and enforce a no-eating and no-drinking rule in the computer area (display "No food or drinks" signs).
• Provide keyboard covers and keep food/drinks in a separate area away from the machines.

(b) Two ways to maintain the computers for efficiency.

• Regularly clean the systems (dust the components, keyboard and screen) and service the hardware.
• Keep antivirus software and system software updated and run regular virus scans and disk clean-ups.

(c)(i) Three possible health risks to users.

• Eye strain (visual fatigue) from staring at the screen.
• Back and neck pain from poor posture.
• Repetitive strain injury (RSI) in the wrists and fingers from prolonged typing.

(c)(ii) How the risks can be reduced.

• Take regular breaks and look away from the screen (use an anti-glare filter and correct lighting) to reduce eye strain.
• Use an adjustable, ergonomic chair and sit upright with the screen at eye level to reduce back and neck pain.
• Use a wrist rest and correct hand position, and rest the hands regularly, to reduce RSI.

Examination reminder: pair each health risk with a matching remedy - eye strain with breaks/anti-glare, back pain with ergonomic seating, and RSI with wrist support and rest.