Hi Lynda, as someone else suggested the DSE regs are in desperate need of an update!
I have seen many referrals of people with neck, shoulder and arm problems which have turned out to be tablet (ipad etc) related. Sometimes they are only referred after a long time when they are already into costly consultant's appointments and MRI scans looking for bulging disks etc. One person was about to undergo manipulation under anaesthetic but some simple changes resolved the issue before they went and they were able to cancel! Tablets have become widespread within the workplace AND in home lives.
They are essentially covered by the DSE regs and if used for long periods as you say, they should be set up correctly with a separate keyboard etc.
I don't think we need to be too rigid in our recommendations - for accessing email, calenders, web, etc whilst out and about the technology helps with lightening the load and minimising manual handling tasks. But for times when a report or suchlike is being written and the user will be using it for an extended period I recommend setting it up as a screen with a separate bluetooth keyboard and even wireless mouse/trackpad.
Ideally the tablet is used as a tool alongside a PC or Mac - depending on the task. In my opinion they should not be a substitute for a PC
One of my much used phrases is 'there is nothing wrong with the equipment, it's how we use it'
We do so much more on the hoof these days - because we can - but at what cost?...............................
Ian.
Ian Flanders
Partner at Occupational Health Alliance LLP
01926 611925
Company registration OC313858
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