Battling Eye Strain in the Workplace: Causes, Risks & Prevention

In office environments, employees are spending longer hours in front of computer screens. While this digital shift has increased workplace efficiency and connectivity, it has also led to a common yet often overlooked health issue: eye strain, also known as digital eye strain or computer vision syndrome.

What is Eye Strain?

Eye strain occurs when your eyes get tired from intense use, typically after prolonged screen time or exposure to harsh lighting. It’s not usually a serious condition, but it can be uncomfortable and affect productivity and well-being.

Common Causes of Eye Strain at Work

Several workplace habits and environmental factors contribute to eye strain, including:

• Extended screen time: Staring at a computer or device screen for hours without breaks.
• Poor lighting: Overly bright or dim lighting can force the eyes to work harder.
• Glare: Reflections from windows, overhead lights, or shiny surfaces can strain the eyes.
• Incorrect screen settings: Inadequate contrast, brightness, or font size can increase eye fatigue.
• Poor posture and ergonomics: Sitting too close to the screen or at an awkward angle.
• Uncorrected or unaddressed vision problems: Wearing outdated prescriptions or not using glasses when needed.

Risks of Untreated Eye Strain

If it is not addressed in the workplace (or beyond), eye strain can pose a number of risks:

• Persistent discomfort: Headaches, dry eyes, blurred vision, and neck or shoulder pain.
• Decreased productivity: Reduced concentration and increased errors.
• Worsening vision over time: While eye strain doesn’t cause permanent damage, chronic stress on the eyes can aggravate existing vision issues.
• Increased fatigue and stress: Constant discomfort can affect mood and overall job satisfaction.

Preventative Measures: How to Protect Your Eyes at Work

Fortunately, there are several easy and effective strategies to reduce and prevent eye strain in the workplace:

1. Follow the 20-20-20 Rule

Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. This helps relax your eye muscles and reduces fatigue.

2. Adjust Your Screen Setup

• Position your monitor about an arm’s length away and 15-20 degrees below eye level.
• Use anti-glare screens or matte screen protectors.
• Increase text size and contrast for easier reading.

3. Optimise Lighting

• Use natural light where possible and avoid harsh overhead lighting.
• Position all monitors to avoid glare from windows or lights.
• Consider using desk lamps with adjustable brightness.

4. Encourage Employees to Take Regular Breaks

In addition to short eye breaks, you should encourage employees to get up away from their desks and move around every hour. This will benefit both their eyes and their bodies in general.

5. Blink Often and Stay Hydrated

Blinking moisturises your eyes. When staring at a screen, you are likely to blink less. Be conscious of blinking, and drink plenty of water throughout the day.

6. Use Computer Glasses

Specialised lenses can reduce glare, filter blue light, and improve focus. It’s important to talk to your optometrist about options tailored to your needs. As an employer, it’s equally important to spread awareness of this preventative measure.

7. Keep Your Screen Clean

Dust and fingerprints can reduce clarity and increase glare, forcing your eyes to work harder; for this reason, it is important to ensure screens are kept clean.

How can oneSAFE help?

Eye strain may seem like a minor inconvenience, but over time, it can have a significant impact on comfort and productivity at work.

oneSAFE provides businesses with a platform to share key Health & Safety guidance along with the ability to schedule Health & Safety checks, such as DSE assessments, to ensure workstations are optimised to allow employees to work safely.

To discuss your Health & Safety needs or to learn more about how oneSAFE can support the safety of your people, contact the team today:

Email: contact@onehrsoftware.com

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