Written question asked by Lord Dykes (Liberal Democrat), in the House of Lords. It was answered by Lord McKenzie of Luton (Labour) on Wednesday, 14 January 2009.

Health: VDU Use

Question: To ask Her Majesty's Government what research they will promote to prevent eye damage for computer users from looking at screens.

Answer: There are currently no plans for further research on the prevention of eye damage from computer use in the workplace. Current medical opinion is that computer use in the workplace does not cause permanent eye damage or disease. Prolonged looking at a screen can result in discomfort, such as dry eyes, headaches and eye irritation. For this reason, HSE recommends short, frequent breaks from screen use of about five to 10 minutes every hour.

Secondary information