This checklist has been designed to give you an easy reference point to quickly check your environment when you need to use your laptop outside of a dedicated workstation. It serves as a reminder of the most important factors you need to consider in these situations and the kind of adaptations you can and should make to minimise the risks to your health. You do not need to keep records of your assessments but use this checklist to inform your decision-making process. Outside of a dedicated workstation it is not possible to control all of the hazards encountered so to minimise the likelihood of harm occurring you should minimise the time spent working at your laptop or smartphone in less than ideal conditions. As a guide, aim to work for spells of a maximum of 30 minutes in one place for laptops and 15 minutes for smartphones before taking a significant task break and/or moving around. This should be decreased if you have pre-existing problems or you develop problems. If you encounter any issues you should discuss them with your manager at the earliest opportunity who will agree any necessary follow-up action or further investigation with you. 1. Display screen Comments Your screen needs to be: Don’t forget, you can: * Clean * Get cleaning wipes from IT © With clear text * Change the font size/colour © Without flicker + Report to IT * Suitable for the task © Wait until you are back in the office © Without glare and reflection * Move your position in relation to the window, adjust curtains/blinds 2, Keyboard * Keep back straight, arms bent at elbow, Your keyboard should be: forearms parallel with the ground, wrists * Used in a comfortable position neutral. + Used with good technique. + Don’t press too hard or overstretch fingers. + Kept clean and readable Training in touch-typing can help. + Report any hardware problems to IT. 3. Mouse, touchpad etc. * Use the most suitable device * Touchpad, touch screen, external mouse and for the task keyboard shortcuts all have their benefits at * Adjust speed/accuracy settings different times. if needed + Don’t overreach, keep arm and wrist neutral, + Find a comfortable position support arm. * Work requiring intensive use of mouse (or equivalent) is best done in a traditional work station so limit timeto 10-20 minutes. 4. Software ‘© If network issues cause difficulties when.Fil Knightstone Suitable for the task * Trained/competent in using it ‘working, don’t waste time struggling with it. Either carry out the task at a more suitable location (if signal strength is an issue) or at another time. 5. Posture Ensure you can work comfortably. Ideally: ‘+ Straight back, supported by chair Relaxed shoulders Horizontal arms Eyes at same level as top of screen + Feet flat on floor Don't forget, you can: * Raise your laptop by resting on something * Use a cushion to support your back + Minimise the time you work in less than ideal positions before moving around and taking a significant task break. Environment Consider your comfort and people around you: ‘+ Adequate room to move Adequate lighting Comfortable temperature Level of noise not excessive Avoid trailing cables Don’t forget you can move positions or locations and you should minimise the time spent working in less than ideal conditions. ‘7. General issues 1, Manual handling 2. Risk of theft 3. Welfare REMEMBER 1. Avoid carrying too much. Keep electronic, rather than paper files. Carrying loads in a rucksack on both shoulders is easier on the body than a hand or shoulder bag. 2. Be aware of your surroundings, avoid advertising you have a laptop by not working in your car or in isolated locations. 3. Take breaks to eat, drink and go to the toilet! It’s easy to forget when you are out and about and spend your breaks travelling. Go for a walk, get some fresh air.