Notebooks for Teachers - Occupational health and Safety

Occupational Heath and Safety

The Department's Safety Consultant has provided the following advice relating to use of notebook and desktop computers: 

·      Discomfort as a result of strain to the shoulders, neck, arms and eyes is common among users of notebook computers. This can, in some instances, lead to occupational overuse injuries, also known as repetitive strain injuries (RSI). The likelihood of prolonged pain and possible injury is increased when the notebook is used for more than 2 hours in any one session. 

·      Strain often occurs due to the inability to set up a notebook computer in the correct ergonomic position (as the screen and keyboard cannot be separated) and through use in environments that result in poor posture (i.e. on the couch) or cause glare. 

·      Where possible, desktop computers should be set up ergonomically to minimise the risk of strain or injury. 

·      Consideration should be also be given to any staff member who has an existing strain or injury to the neck or shoulders, as carrying a notebook computer can further aggravate the condition. 

The risk of strain or injury through notebook computer use can be reduced utilising some simple strategies such as: 

·        Angling the screen to minimise the need to bend the neck;

·        Using an external mouse, keyboard and monitor where possible;

·        Using a chair that maintains good posture; and reducing the need to carry the notebook (where practicable).

·        Taking regular rest breaks (at least every 20 minutes - or more often if the set up is not optimal) to allow muscles and vision to recuperate;

·        Using the notebook for no more than 2 hours in any session;

·        Working in an environment free from glare;

·        Using the notebook on a desk (rather than on the lap).

Further advice and information on reducing the risk of injury is also available from John Heyward, Department of Education Safety Consultant, at John.Heyward@det.wa.edu.au

Screen Sizes and Formats

Screen size and format offered may vary over time in accordance with feedback received and industry trends.

From 2008, Acer PC notebooks ship with 14.1" wide-screen format TFT screens at 1200x800 resolution. These models are significantly lighter (500 grams) and less unwieldy than the previous Acer PC notebooks.

• For reference, some comparison photographs are provided below illustrating the physical and display differences between old and new Acer PC models:

• Acer - Windows Start menu; standard size (2005 model at left, 2008 model at right).
• Acer - Windows Start menu; larger size on 2008 model (optional setting).
• Acer - relative font sizes in a document (2005 model at left, 2008 model at right).
• Acer - relative font sizes in file management window (2005 model at left, 2008 model at right).

The new Acer screens are the same width as the older 15.4" 4:3 format screen. They are also brighter and have slightly higher resolution. 

It is understood that the smaller screen size will not please all participants, however the brighter, clearer image, lighter weight and smaller overall size are believed to offer some practical and occupational health and safety advantages.

Please feel free to contact the Notebooks for Teachers Program Administration Team by email if you would like any further information on the Program.