Page 216 - Business Principles and Management

Chapter 8 • Technology and Information Management

8.3 The Effects of Technology on Work and Workers

Goals Terms
• Discuss types of problems that • carpal tunnel
employees face in today’s high- syndrome (CTS)
technology organizations. • ergonomics
• Describe technology’s present
and future impact on businesses.

Technology and Workers

Computers, the Internet, and other forms of electronic technology have affected
our lives as consumers and as workers. The work of employees has changed
because of new technological devices and because firms have restructured the
ways in which they operate. Over the last several decades, computers have
changed the ways individuals perform work tasks, which in turn has caused
anxieties in people about job security, about their ability to cope with new
technology, and about electronic devices that may affect their health.

HEALTH PROBLEMS
Certain complaints arise among workers who spend most of their work time using
computers and other automated equipment. Employees may complain about eye
strain, cancer-causing radiation, backaches, and hand-muscle problems. Eye strain
is likely to occur when computer operators view monitors (computer screens) for
long periods. Usually, eye strain can be reduced or eliminated by adjusting light
intensity on screens, shading screens from glare, wearing glare-reducing glasses,
and taking work breaks every few hours. Sitting in uncomfortable chairs for long
periods can cause back problems. Hand problems are often the result of improper
keyboard or chair heights. Proper chair design with good back support helps, as
do special exercise routines and breaks from being seated for long periods.
Employees may also be concerned about radiation. Many types of electronic
equipment such as cell phones, televisions, and computers give off modest amounts
of radiation. Some studies have shown that the amount of radiation is small and
therefore does not affect health. However, other studies claim computer radiation is
harmful. Pregnant women are especially concerned. Many businesses assign women
to noncomputer jobs during pregnancy to avoid possible harm from radiation.
One type of injury that can occur from repetitive motion such as using a
computer keyboard or playing video games is carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS).
CTS occurs when the tunnel in a person’s wrist becomes too narrow for the
nerves and tendons that support the hands. This can result in a tingling or
numbness in the hand. CTS can be prevented by proper posture when using
a computer, using a wrist rest, and having an ergonomic keyboard. If some-
one gets CTS, they may need to use a wrist brace or have surgery.
The science of adapting equipment to the work and health needs of people is
called ergonomics. Ergonomic experts study the relationships between people and

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