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D O C U M E N T VDT Hazards in Art Angela Babin Useofvideodisplayterminals(VDTs)in the workplace is increasingly part of the daily routine. It is estimated that about 15million people operate VDTs daily. Thistrend ismirrored in the arts,where computersbecome common commercial art tools used in graphics, lighting, and production services. ‘New’ art forms have evolved around VDTs, including video art, installations, displays, computer-aided design (CAD), and media-interactive art. VDTs are also commonly used in primary and secondary schoolsas teaching tools, recreation games, and as part of the science curriculum. Often those using VDTs for work such as editing and computer-aided design are exposed to imagesfor extended periodsof time and at closerange. The different experience of colored imagesand moving display has not been researched. VDTs function on principles similar to a television set. Electrons beamed from a cathode ray tube (CRT) interact with a two-layer screen. The metal screen layer accelerates the electrons, and the phosphorcontaining layer converts the electron energyto light.Anodes serve to accelerateand focusthe electron beam,and deflectorsregulate the beam’s impacton the screen.A fewcomputer displays use non-CRT display methods, including gas plasma, electron luminescence or liquid crystal presentation of information. Reportson the hazardsofVDToperation are based upon research into standard computer operation. Documented health problems include vision complaints, ergonomic problems,rashesand health problemsassociatedwith stress. There is also concern about possible reproductiveeffects. EYE PROBLEMS Workers report eye and vision problems after VDT use, including blurred vision, temporary near-sightedness (myopia ), burning or itching eyes, tinted vision, eyestrain, eye fatigue and headaches. Unfortunately,this type of symptomology is subjective, and hard to detect and quantify. Individuals with previous vision problems often experience more discomfort, and VDT use can trigger undetected vision problems. A causal link between VDT usage and cataracts has not been established, although it has been suspected. There are numerous characteristics of the visual screen that may play a role in the comfort of the operator. These include character readability (pixelsize),character oscillation , flicker (variation in luminance), blitz (visualvertical sweep velocity) and afterglow. Epileptics are particularly sensitiveto the flickerrate. There are severalways to reduce eye discomfort.Glarefrom the screen shouldbe reduced by blocking reflected light. Dimming the room lights (source material can be individually lit by small desk lamps), using glare-reducing screens, shading sunlight,placing terminals at right angles to the windows-all of these decrease glare. The U.S. National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) has specific room luminance recommendations depending on the type of work being done. Individuals should be able to change the contrast and brightness of the screen to match their comfort. While the hazards of each type are similar,somepeople have a preference for aparticular screen,either green, or amber,or black and white. A few screens have the possibility of switching back and forth from light writing on a dark screen to dark writing on a light screen (opposite polarities). Although changing the ratio of luminancewith flickerrate, this alternation is relaxing to the eyes. VDT operators should also have periodic eye examinations and take regular rest breaks during the working day. The recommendationsfor rest breaksvarywith the intensity of work. The New York Committee for OccupationalSafety and Health (NYCOSH)suggestsa 15-minutebreak for each hour of intense work. ERGONOMIC PROBLEMS Ergonomic complaints such as back, neck, shoulder, and upper-arm problems are common in VDT workers. Repetitive wrist motions can cause strain injuries such as carpal tunnel syndrome.ManyVDTworkersreport legpain. Circulation to the feet can be cut off when the work chairsare too high o f fthe ground. Footrestsand proper typingchairswith adjustable heights and backs are recommended. DERMATITIS VDT operators report rashes and dermatitis.This is related to the build-up of static electrical fields, which commonly occur in hot, dry environments. Precautions include the installation of a humidifier, placing a plastic mat under the user chairs,and usinggrounded glare screensand keyboard touchpads to increase humidity and decrease the build-up of static charge. REPRODUCTIVE PROBLEMS Questions concerning reproductive risks are common. Although studies have shown that female VDT operators in certain offices experience more adverse pregnancy outcomes than non-VDT workers, there has not been enough research to determine...

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