Chapter 7 Supplemental Activity: Workplace Wellness Research

Chapter 7 Supplemental Activity Workplace Wellness Research Workp

Workplace wellness is an important topic that concerns office workers. In this activity, you will do research to learn more about topics related to workplace wellness. Choose a topic related to health problems or injuries that might affect office workers. Examples include back strain from improper lifting, eye strain, repetitive stress injuries, cuts or burns from equipment, injuries caused by hazardous materials like cleaning fluids or toner, or breathing problems related to poor air quality. Ask your instructor to approve your selected topic. Search the internet or other sources to find at least one article about your topic. Note the complete title, author, source, and date of publication or access. Read the article and compile a list of the main points presented in it. Submit your findings to your instructor using ACoT e-Learn.

Paper For Above instruction

Workplace wellness is a critical aspect of maintaining a healthy and productive environment for office workers. As sedentary lifestyles become more prevalent, understanding common health problems that affect office workers is essential for developing effective prevention strategies. This paper explores a pertinent issue—eye strain among office employees—by reviewing relevant literature to understand its causes, implications, and potential mitigation measures.

Understanding Eye Strain in Office Settings

Eye strain, also known as computer vision syndrome, has become increasingly common due to prolonged exposure to screens. According to Sheppard and Wolffsohn (2018), symptoms include dryness, irritation, blurred vision, and headaches, which can impair productivity and quality of life for affected individuals. The authors emphasize that the increasing reliance on digital devices in workplaces has heightened the prevalence of this condition (Sheppard & Wolffsohn, 2018).

Causes and Contributing Factors

The primary causes of eye strain among office workers are extended screen time, poor lighting conditions, improper viewing distances, and uncorrected vision problems. Rosenfield (2011) highlights that inadequate ergonomic setup, such as screens positioned too high or low, exacerbates eye discomfort. Additionally, inadequate blinking while focusing on screens leads to ocular dryness (Rosenfield, 2011). The cumulative effect of these factors underscores the importance of ergonomic considerations and awareness to mitigate eye strain.

Impacts on Productivity and Well-being

Eye strain can significantly affect employees’ productivity, concentration, and overall well-being. Rosenfield (2011) notes that discomfort from ocular fatigue causes frequent breaks and reduces work efficiency. Furthermore, persistent eye problems may contribute to longer-term vision issues, which could necessitate medical intervention (Sheppard & Wolffsohn, 2018). The psychological impact of discomfort and fatigue can lead to increased stress levels, further compromising mental health and job satisfaction.

Prevention and Management Strategies

Various strategies can be implemented to prevent and manage eye strain effectively. The American Optometric Association (2020) recommends the "20-20-20 rule": every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds to relax eye muscles. Proper ergonomic setup, including adjusting monitor height and lighting, is vital. Ensuring screens are positioned at an appropriate distance (about arm’s length) and using anti-glare screens reduces strain (Sheppard & Wolffsohn, 2018). Additionally, regular eye examinations and corrective eyewear adjustments enhance visual comfort.

Implications for Workplace Policy

Employers should implement policies that promote eye health, such as providing adjustable workstations and educating employees on ergonomic practices. Incorporating scheduled breaks and encouraging awareness can help reduce symptoms. Companies might also consider providing ergonomic assessments or eye care benefits to foster a healthier workforce (American Optometric Association, 2020).

Conclusion

Eye strain among office workers remains a significant workplace health concern, driven by increased screen use and suboptimal ergonomic conditions. By understanding its causes, impacts, and preventive measures, organizations can develop effective strategies to enhance employee well-being and productivity. Investing in ergonomic solutions and promoting awareness are essential steps toward fostering a healthier, more productive work environment.

References

• American Optometric Association. (2020). Computer vision syndrome. Eye Care. https://www.aoa.org/healthy-eyes/vision-and-vision-care/computer-vision-Syndrome
• Rosenfield, M. (2011). Computer vision syndrome: A review of ocular causes and potential solutions. Optometry and Vision Science, 88(5), 502–508.
• Sheppard, A. L., & Wolffsohn, J. S. (2018). Digital eye strain: prevalence, measurement, and amelioration. BMJ Open Ophthalmology, 3(1), e000146.