Visual displays should be easy to read. Lay-out, viewing angle, size of characters, contrast, illumination level, reflections, glare and colour should all be considered. The shape and placement of controls, screen, keyboard, and document holder should also minimize employee effort. Non-reflective finishes on walls, office furniture and VDT equipment will reduce glare and reflections. Employees can rest their eyes periodically by looking away from the screen and beyond the workstation.
Eye exercises and periodic changes in activity also help to prevent eye strain.
Furniture should be arranged to allow for ease and efficiency of movement, taking into consideration the visual field, sequence and frequency of use, communication, reach requirements and storage facilities. The worksurface should be at the appropriate height for the employee. The upperarms should hang from the shoulders and the forearms should be parallel to the floor with the hands in line with the forearms. The worksurface should also be able to accommodate materials related to the task, and should allow for sufficient leg clearance underneath. The employee should be able to sit comfortably with the thighs parallel to the floor, the front of the seat not touching the backs of the knees, and the feet resting firmly on the floor or footrest.