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Risk of Occupational Overuse Syndrome associated with the use of the mouse
14. (1993)
The attention of all users of mouse activated computers should be drawn to this Hazard Alert, including in particular, operators of Computer Aided Design (CAD) systems or others who use the mouse intensively.
While the severity and chronicity of occupational overuse injuries at the ANU has generally decreased, such injuries in their early stages are frequently reported amongst general and academic staff and PhD students. A number of reports of arm and shoulder discomfort or pain have been associated with sustained use of the mouse.
The main causative factor is lack of relief from high levels of muscle contraction, brought about by:-
- using the mouse far away from the body, so that the arm is outstretched
- using the mouse at a level higher than the keyboard so that the shoulder is raised
- maintaining the grip of the mouse for prolonged periods, including when the mouse is not being activated
- prolonged intensive use of the mouse, eg without breaks, and/or for more than 50% of the day
Guidelines for Reducing Postural Strain when Using the Mouse
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If using a keyboard and mouse, position the mouse on the same level as, and as close as possible to the side of the keyboard and to your body. It is important that your desk is set up suitably to achieve this. For example,
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a single surface height adjustable desk or
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if the desk has an adjustable keyboard section, it should be large enough to hold the keyboard, mouse pad and the mouse. If the keyboard section is not large enough, it may be necessary to place the keyboard section level with the rest of the desk, and adjust chair, screen and footrest accordingly to allow the recommended posture at the VDU.
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Avoid maintaining the grip of the mouse when not actually using it. During pauses let go of the mouse and rest hands in your lap.
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Keyboard and mouse work should be confined to a maximum of 50% of the working day. A maximum of 45 minutes per hour should be spent on the computer. The remaining 15 minutes of the hour should be taken as rest breaks spread two or three times through the hour. Gentle stretching exercises and other tasks involving a change from the fixed posture and repetitive movements required at the VDU should be performed during the breaks to allow muscles to recover from fatigue.
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Where possible, use keyboard commands to minimise use of the mouse - see the "Shortcuts" book available for loan from your OSLO or from the OHS Unit.
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Vary tasks throughout the day to vary posture and movements - so that different muscles are used and sustained fixed postures and excessive repetitive movements are avoided.
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Ensure adequate time is allowed to complete VDU tasks.
This alert should be read in conjunction with the Occupational Overuse Syndrome brochure titles "Don't let Your Posture Cost You", available from your OSLO, OHS Committee or the OHS Unit.
For further information contact:
OHS Officer, e-mail: OHS.Officer@anu.edu.au
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