Touch-typing VDU operation: workstation adjustment, working posture and workers' perceptions

Abstract

At a VDU workstation professional touch-typing operators worked at eight different combined adjustments of visual target height and chair backrest inclination. Working posture, workers' perceptions and work performance were measured. Two conclusions were drawn. First, in order to minimize the load on the musculoskeletal system for touch-typing VDU operators, the gaze inclination to a visual target (screen, document) should be 6–9° (range 0–15°) below the horizontal and, second, the gaze inclination recommended is independent of sitting posture (that is with the backrest between upright and 15° inclined backwards).

Keywords:

• Musculoskeletal System
• Workload
• Posture
• Psychophysics