New research shows employee health could be at risk because of poor computer use

New research from energiseYou, the UK’s leading employee health, energy and performance experts, finds the large majority of employees score just 55% on the key drivers of smart computer use. This is putting employee health at risk.

Oliver Gray, Managing Director of energiseYou, says: “With so many people failing to follow healthy computer practices, it’s no surprise that organisations experience such high musculo-skeletal related sickness absence rates.

“It is a legal requirement for organisations to carry out workstation assessments but still many employers fail to do so. Not only are these employers falling foul of the law but their people are far more likely to suffer with poor health related problems, such as back problems, repetitive strain injuries (RSI) and headaches.

“By training employees to use their computer smartly organisations have a real opportunity to reduce musculo-skeletal related sickness absence and improve the health, energy and performance of their staff.”

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The research of over 2,000 employees finds:

• Just 30% say that their working environment is suitable e.g. comfortable lighting levels
• Less than half say they stretch their neck, back and shoulders at least once during the working day
• 37% suffer from tension headaches or migraines
• 66% have tension or feel pain in their neck, back and shoulders
• Only 50% they take regular breaks from their computer
• Only 30% eat lunch away from their computer/desk
• Over 50% have a TV or computer/laptop in their bedroom

Gray adds, “Most people’s habits mean they are using technology non-stop from the minute they open their eyes to the minute they close them at night. This over stimulation of mind and body can drain energy and cause poor health, such as sleep problems and mental health fatigue.”