Automating Stress: Ergonomics and Computer System Design

Abstract

This paper considers the current accepted computer system design philosophy. It reviews published reports of health problems, and in the light of the findings of a recent large survey carried out by North East London Polytechnic into the health and safety aspects of computer systems, recommends a change in emphasis to a more user oriented approach as a way of minimising stress and enhancing productivity.Computing is today's new technology: introducing a new technology always brings problems, and problems always lead to stress. The applications of computing touch all aspects of our daily life but its greatest impact is being felt in the workplace. The effect has been most dramatic on clerical jobs following office automation, with the widespread introduction of clerical workstations and Visual Display Units (VDUs). There are now over two million VDUs in use in Britain, for a working population of thirty million.Like all new technologies, computer terminals have their problems (1, 2). The dangers are well- known and have been widely publicized. According to the press, working with VDUs can make you sterile, send you blind or cripple you for life. And yet every day people operate their machines with little apparent concern.