Chapter 2. 2-6Comfort and accessibilityGood ergonomic practice is important to get the most from your personal computer and to avoiddiscomfort. Arrange your workplace and the equipment you use to suit your individual needs and the kindof work that you perform. In addition, use healthy work habits to maximize your performance andcomfort while using your computer.Arranging your work areaUse a work surface of appropriate height and available working area to allow you to work in comfort.Organize you work area to match the way you use materials and equipment. Keep your work area cleanand clear for the materials that you typically use and place the items that you use most frequently, such asthe computer mouse or telephone, within the easiest reach.Equipment layout and setup play a large role in your working posture. The following topics describe howto optimize equipment setup to achieve and maintain good working posture.Positioning and viewing your monitor:Position and adjust your computer monitor for comfortable viewing by considering the following items:• Viewing distance:Optimal viewing distances for monitors range from approximately 510mm to 760mm (20 in to 30in) and can vary depending on ambient light and time of day. You can achieve different viewingdistances by repositioning your monitor or by modifying your posture or chair position. Use aviewing distance that is most comfortable for you.• Monitor height:Position the monitor so your head and neck are in a comfortable and neutral (vertical, or upright)position. If your monitor does not have height adjustments, you might have to place books or othersturdy objects under the base of the monitor to achieve the desired height. A general guideline is toposition the monitor such that the top of the screen is at or slightly below your eye-height when youare comfortably seated. However, be sure to optimize your monitor height so the line of site betweenyour eyes and the center the monitor suits your preferences for visual distance and comfortableviewing when your eye muscles are in a relaxed stated.• Tilt&Swivel&Pivot:Adjust the tilt, swivel and pivot of your monitor to optimize the appearance of the screen contentand to accommodate your preferred head and neck posture.• General location:Position your monitor to avoid glare or reflections on the screen from overhead lighting or nearbywindows.The following are some other tips for comfortable viewing of your monitor:• Use adequate lighting for the type of work you are performing.• Use the monitor brightness, contrast, and image adjustment controls, if equipped, tooptimize the image on your screen to meet your visual preferences.• Keep your monitor screen clean so you can focus on the screen’s contents.Any concentrated and sustained visual activity can be tiring for your eyes. Be sure to periodicallylook away from your monitor screen and focus on a far object to allow your eye muscles to relax. Ifyou have questions on eye fatigue or visual discomfort, consult a vision care specialist for advice.