How do I protect my eyes when using my computer?

By Jeandre de Beer

When using our computers for an extended period of time – our eyes can become sensitive and irritated.

What can you do to minimize these negative effects?

1. Clean your monitor on a regular basis.

Monitors can become dirty from dust and finger prints. Make sure the monitor is clean to reduce strain on your eyes – especially when reading text.

2. What is the ideal distance between your monitor and your eyes?

The best distance for proper viewing and reduction in eye strain is between 50cm and 75cm.

3. Avoid using font sizes that are too small.

Choose a font and size that is comfortable to read without you needing to strain your eyes to focus properly.

4. What is the ideal height to place the monitor?

Adjust it so that the top of the monitor is just below your eye level so that you are looking down slightly.

5. Make sure you have adequate lighting in the room.

If the lights are too bright it can cause glaring on your monitor and if the light is too low if can cause additional strain for your eyes.

6. Make use of an LCD or LED monitor.

LCD / LED monitors are much kinder on our eyes than the older box shaped monitors. If you are still making use of a CRT (boxed shaped) monitor – make sure that you set the refresh rate to the highest number your monitor supports.

7. Take regular breaks.

Do not stare at your monitor for hours on end. Try to take a 5 minute break for every hour that you work on your computer.

Do you have any computer problems?

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