Mental and physical strain at VDT workstations

Abstract. Abstract. There are millions of workers worldwide who use video display terminals (VDTs) on a daily basis. Over the past decade VDT users have reported a variety of health complaints that have been associated with VDTs including visual and musculoskeletal discomfort and psychological distress. In addition VDT users have expressed fears about radiation from VDTs and more recently concerns about adverse reproductive effects. This paper explores the potential health effects of working at a VDT based on an evaluation of current research literature and indicates where more research is underway or needed to better define health risks. Some conclusions about the seriousness of potential health effects are presented.

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