Does your work demand that you stare at a computer screen for several hours at a stretch? If so, eyestrain may become a serious problem. A current story by the everon small-business blog says that workers plugged into their computers can face a host of problems, everything from watery eyes to headaches, increased sensitivity to light and difficulty focusing. The good news? Avoiding eyestrain is actually quite easy, even if you need to stare at the monitor for eight hours. The everon blog provided some simple strategies for reducing the negative effects of eyestrain.
The Secret
What’s the key to avoiding eyestrain? Employees merely need to follow the 20/20/20 rule. Every 20 minutes, people need to turn away from their computer screens for 20 seconds. They should take a look at an object or image that stands at least 20 feet away. This surprisingly simple exercise will help keep eyestrain at bay. And it could make employees more efficient. And, best of all, everon found several worthy apps which can remind employees of when it’s time to take an eye break.
Workrave
But how will you remember to take these breaks? Fortunately, everon lists several apps that can help. For example, there’s Workrave, which sends a message on your screen when it’s time to take your micro-break. Workrave also suggests specific exercises that will help keep your eyes healthy. If you don’t enjoy this app, you can also try EyeLeo, in which an animated leopard walks you through short exercises for your eyes. EyeLeo will blank out your computer screen when it’s time to have a break.
Coffee Break
Finally, there’s Coffee Break. This app, available only for Apple products, slowly darkens computer screens. When an employee’s break arrives, the screen will be completely dark. It’s an effective reminder that it’s time for a short eye break. Needless to say, even the niftiest reminder apps can’t force workers to get out of their chairs and turn from their computer screens. It’s up to employees to take care of their eyes.