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Working safely with laptops

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Working safely with laptops

Now that your chair is set up correctly at your desk, we need to address the posture through your upper spine, head, neck and shoulders. The most common factor affecting the position of your head is the object we look at the most – you’ve guessed it already, your laptop screen!

If you’re working on a laptop for more than 1-2 hours each day, it’s highly recommended that you make some simple changes to the way it’s set up.

We need to be able to bring the top section of your screen to (at least) your eye level. This will generally require a platform of some description.

It doesn’t need to be anything fancy, you might need to be creative and use some books or printer paper!

Alternatively if you would like something offering more precise adjustment, you may decide to invest in a laptop stand or laptop posture pack.





Working safely with laptops


Working safely with laptops

Once set up and your screen is at eye level, bring your chosen platform to a comfortable depth for viewing. This may vary according to your eyesight but it’s generally 50-60 centimetres from your head.

Now that your laptop is supported on a platform, it’s not in a natural position for you to type. Don’t be tempted to undo all your hard work by bringing the screen towards you again – you simply need to connect an external keyboard and mouse. Set your keyboard and mouse close to the edge of your workstation, ensuring that your elbows remain supported on your chair arms. Lastly, if you’re referencing lots of papers and note pads, it could be worth investing in simple document holder. If you have nothing else available, a spare A4-sized picture frame could be just as effective!