Working on computers, regardless of whether you’re dealing with the hardware or the software, can take a toll on your health. As in any other job, it’s important to make sure that you’re taking care of yourself while you’re navigating your profession that involves working on or with computers. But what are some tips that you can realistically incorporate into your day-to-day? Here are three ways to take care of yourself when working on computers.
1. Use Body Butter on Your Hands
Dry air in the office or another workspace isn’t uncommon, and it can make your hands dry. Given that you rely on your hands to perform your duties, this can make it much more difficult to do your job successfully and productively, regardless of whether you’re typing on computers or pulling them apart. Using body butter on your hands can ensure that they stay moisturized, are functional at work, and aren’t prone to cracking, which can be especially important if you tend to work in dry and colder environments.
2. Purchase Blue Light Blocking Glasses
People think that working on computers means that there are limited ways you could experience any occupational hazards. Compared to industries like construction, this might very well be true. However, that doesn’t mean that there aren’t things that could cause you discomfort when you’re working with or on computers. An excellent example of this is blue light.
Blue light, a type of light emitted from your computer screen, can cause eye strain, which is characterized by dry eyes, persistent eye pain, and soreness in the head and shoulders. While generally only a slight annoyance, it can make it hard to do things as simple as push through work or even get to sleep. Investing in high-quality blue light-blocking glasses will allow you to work on computers without developing eye strain as easily. Of course, you should also take other precautions like stepping away from the computer now and again and making sure to move your head and shoulders so that they don’t become sore.
3. Make Sure to Move Around and Invest in Ergonomic Equipment
Most don’t realize the importance of incorporating movement throughout their day when they do something stationary for a living. Sitting under fluorescent lights and being hunched over is not good for you, even if it’s what you rely on to generate income. Make it a priority to take regular breaks and to try to incorporate movement into those breaks. It’s also beneficial to invest in ergonomic chairs, wrist cushions, and other items that will make it so you’re more comfortable while you’re going about your day.
Working on computers does come with its fair share of downsides, which should be remedied promptly so as to encounter as few challenges and obstacles as possible. If you’re looking to take better care of yourself as you navigate your work, use the tips above to make sure you’re in the best possible position to stay comfortable and reduce occupational hazards in your work environment.