My computer went to that great big electronics store in the sky last week, so I ended up buying a new laptop. It’s sleek and shiny and actually the first new computer I’ve owned in a long time. (My last two were hand-me-downs, and served long and well.)
Like most electronics, the new laptop came with a manual. Several manuals, in fact. The regular operations one, the quick start guide, a shopping-for-accessories booklet, and something called the “Instruction Manual for Safety and Comfort”.
With a title like that, I couldn’t resist taking a peek.
Much of it is devoted to computer safety. Don’t submerge your laptop in the tub, don’t lick the stuff that comes out of the LCD screen if it cracks, don’t try to incinerate your battery… everything from the basic to the weird. But there is some important health information in there, too:
- First aid if battery fluid comes into contact with your skin, clothes, or eyes.
- Dangers of using Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Wireless WAN in hospitals (near electronic medical equipment) and around people with pacemakers. The radio waves from the listed devices could interfere with the operation of medical devices! I didn’t know that.
- Small parts like caps, screws, and small memory devices can be choking hazards.
- Keep headphone volume at a reasonable level; ongoing exposure to loud music or other sounds can damage hearing.
The back half of the booklet is dedicated to ergonomics and other comfort issues. I think this is fantastic! It talks about proper posture for extended computer use, how your chair’s back rest and arm rests should be adjusted, and how to hold your wrists when typing. There’s even a section on alternate desk set-ups, like using an external keyboard or monitor with your laptop.
But possibly the best part of all is the section on taking breaks and varying tasks. It talks about changing your posture while you work, taking short breaks throughout the day to avoid body and eye strain, and how stress at work can impact your health!
I am very impressed, Toshiba. Very impressed, indeed.