Abstract
The
results from three surveys of almost 200 computer workers
in 8 buildings will be described. An initial survey asked
about baseline office lighting and screen glare problems.
A second survey was conducted about one-month after two thirds
of the workers received a glass, glare and anti-static screen
filter, the rest served as a control group. The final survey
was conducted about one month after the control group workers
received their glare filters. Measures of illuminance and
screen luminance contrast were taken at 117 work stations.,
Results showed that workers rated very positively to the glare
filters. Following glare filter installation rating s of various
screen image attributes and of visual health problems were
substantially improved. The glare filters effectively minimized
electrostatic shocks to workers Most workers liked their glare
filters and reported improved productivity.
Conclusions
Results
from this study allow that worker reactions to the glare filters
were very positive. Workers reported that the glare filters
improved the quality of several screen attributes, such as
contrast. Also, the glare filters reduced complaints of screen
glare, and improved workers' ratings of visual health and
productivity. The glare filters tested in this study include
a conductive coating to eliminate electrostatic fields in
front of the computer screen. After using the glare filter
complaints of electrostatic shock and screen dustiness were
reduced. Use of the glare filter did not affect workers' ratings
of the quality of the office lighting.
In summary, the research found:
- 80% of users reported
that the filters made it easier to read their screens
and more than 50% said that the filters helped their productivity.
- 89% said that the filters
improved the quality of the screen image by enhancing
sharpness, contrast, color and brightness.
- 73% said text was clearer
with the glare filter; 34% said there was less screen
flicker with the filter.
- use of the glare filter
reduced the prevalence of the following symptoms:
- 50% decrease in lethargy/tiredness;
trouble focusing eyes; dry eyes
- 40% decrease in itching/watering
eyes; headaches
Overall,
worker reactions to use of the glare filter were extremely
positive, and the vast majority of workers said that they
liked using this. In conclusion, results from this research
show that the use of this type of optical glass glare filter
can help to improve the visual experience for many computer
workers.
Effects of
glare filters on reports of health symptoms.
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These
results confirm that the glare filters were successful in
reducing the amount of glare on the computer screen. Workers
generally were enthusiastic about their glare filters. One
worker wrote:
"The difference
is tremendous! Sometimes I lift the glare screen a little
as a reminder of what I'm missing out on."
Others said:
"I'm so glad to have it! Has made a big difference
in amount of eyestrain! Thank you!"
"Thanks for the opportunity to participate, never
realized how much screen (filter) could help - no more
headaches!"
"Great for cutting down eyestrain;, thanks for
including me in your survey."
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here for ordering information)
-
without Glare Guards
-
with Glare Guards