Eye strain resulting from working at a computer is extremely common. In fact, the American Optometric Association recently reported that 70 percent of people who work on computers for at least two hours a day are impacted by a condition called Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS).
Our tendency to stare at a computer screen or Smartphone throughout the entire day is taking a serious toll on our eyes. CVS is also associated with fatigue, decreased productivity, and headaches.
For those in the working world who can’t avoid prolonged computer use, adequate lighting is key to avoiding the effects of CVS. If you work in an office setting, think about talking to your employer about improving lighting conditions! Here are some tips for proper desk lighting:
- Bright lighting overhead should be kept to a minimum, if possible. Using a combination of indirect lights and task lights is optimal for an office setting.
- If you have a desk lamp, make sure it is 15 inches above the desk’s surface. Whether your light is wall-mounted or sitting on the desk, the 15 inch rule stands.
