THE HEALTH EFFECTS OF WORKING ON THE COMPUTER: WARNING SIGNS

Abstract

Computerisation and digitisation are an engine of social and economic change. Implementation and coordination of both work and leisure activities are already unthinkable without computers and smart devices. The benefits of computerisation are available immediately in the forms of faster problem solving, cost-saving, or the environmental impacts of using less paper in administration. However, the fact that we spend more and more time in front of computers also raises health issues. Harmful effects of bad sitting posture, short lightning or other factors conveniently fade into the background. An important reason for this is that their representation differs in time. The human body can adapt flexibly to various external factors; the formation of irreversible changes requires a relatively long time, which gradually evolves. Because of this asymmetry, a notice of preliminary signals and a preventive approach is highly advised.This paper contributes to the ergonomic knowledge base by exploring the opinions about the early warning signs of the problems among higher education students. The analysis is based on the responses of 591 students to a voluntary online survey. The sample structure by age and job experience points to the increase of problems, drawing attention to necessary development actions.