How to Prevent Computer Eyestrain

Computer eyestrain can hurt productivity, but it's easy to prevent if you take a few precautions.

Step 1: Turn down the lights Close the blinds and turn off extra lights to reduce glare.
TIP: Use an anti-glare screen or computer hood if you can't reduce the light in your office.
Step 2: Upgrade your monitor Buy an LCD monitor, since older CRT monitors produce flicker, a major source of eyestrain. Use a monitor measuring at least 19 inches with a dot pitch of .28 millimeters or lower.
TIP: If you're stuck with a CRT monitor, set the refresh rate as high as possible to reduce flicker.
Step 3: Look away Look out a window or down a hall. Break up computer work by focusing on a distant object every twenty minutes.
Step 4: Blink more Blink to keep your eyes moist. Blink 10 times, slowly, every half hour.
Step 5: Use a copy stand Use a copy stand and place it next to your monitor to reduce the distance your eyes must travel between page and screen.
TIP: Make sure printed materials are well lit, but don't shine a lamp on the screen or in your eyes.
Step 6: Use computer glasses Use computer glasses, which are designed specifically for the distance between your eyes and the computer screen.
FACT: Computers with Braille displays are available for the sight-impaired.