Lighting levels for work at VDTs should generally be lower than for paperwork. Consideration should also be given to contrast, daylight, glare, reflections, luminaires, ambient light, and lighting for paper tasks. VDTs should be placed away from windows or at a 90 angle to the windows. Light from windows should be controlled with blinds or curtains. To reduce repetitive strain injuries and add to employee satisfaction, repetitive work can be combined with other tasks requiring different skills.
Physical exercise can play a role in prevention.
To reduce lower back and leg discomfort, sedentary work should allow for activities that enable periodic changes in posture. Work requiring static positions for lengthy periods can disturb normal circulation and muscle activity. Employees can get up and stretch occasionally to relieve muscular tension. Physical exercise can also help to increase circulation and strengthen muscles. To reduce stress, task demands can be fitted to employee characteristics through the design of the workplace and the task, through placement based on ability or through task-related training.