Ocular health among radiologists in the age of PACS: is it time for our profession to open its eyes to this issue in light of existing European legislation?

Abstract

The regular use of visual display units (VDUs) at work has been shown to cause the development of a constellation of symptoms ranging from dry eyes to temporary myopia. European workers who use VDUs are now protected under detailed legislation enacted by the European Union (Directive 90/270/EEC). The use of picture archiving and communications systems, which are almost ubiquitous in European countries, means that, as a profession, radiologists fall under the remit of this legislation. This paper aims to assess the impact that full implementation of this law would have on a radiologist's practice and to more broadly examine the issue of eye care as an occupational health issue in radiology. The authors conclude that eye care in the setting of regular VDU use among radiologists is an important quality control and occupational health issue. There is a clear legal basis requiring employers to provide regular eye examinations and reporting breaks. In the absence of leadership from employers on this issue individual radiologists have a responsibility to ensure that their work practices reflect the legal situation and minimise the effect of eye strain on their performance.

Magnitude and Determinants of Computer Vision Syndrome Among Radiologists in Saudi Arabia: A National Survey

“…Excessive exposure to monitors is an important factor that may predispose and lead radiologists to develop CVS. Policies and guidelines to minimize its occurrence were suggested by the European Agency for Safety and Health at Work (26). In Europe, radiologists are protected under legislation enacted by the European Union amended by The European Parliament (Directive 90/ 270/EEC), which requires employers to provide regular eye examinations and breaks during work (27).…”

Differences in risk factors for neurophysiologically confirmed carpal tunnel syndrome and illness with similar symptoms but normal median nerve function: a case–control study

“…For example, if occupational activities such as prolonged use of computer keyboards act only to focus attention on symptoms, and do not injure tissues, it may be counter-productive to portray them as important health hazards requiring careful risk assessment and control, as is currently implied by legislation in the European Union [39]. Doing so may lead to unwarranted anxiety from symptoms that normally would resolve rapidly, and could thereby generate illness that would not otherwise occur.…”

Radiology blues: Comparing occupational blue-light exposure to recommended safety standards

“… 9 From an occupational health perspective, the preservation of visual acuity of a radiologist should be considered a crucial concern. 10 In order to obtain this goal, a good understanding of the contributing parameters and especially the ocular effects of blue light exposure when working on VDUs is important.…”