student handbook: general information 2010-2011 - University of ...

display screen equipment can result in a range of medical conditions ranging from slight
discomfort all the way through to permanent disability.
Inevitably, students will frequently spend long periods of time using computers. There are
some simple tips that can be adopted by all display screen equipment users to minimise the
risks to their health through the use of computers, including notebooks. The most
important tip is to take regular breaks but the tips are as follows (adapted from the
University DSE policy):
• Where possible, raise or lower your seat until your forearms are horizontal with
your shoulders relaxed. Make sure your wrists are straight when your hands are on
the keyboard.
• Sit right back in your chair. Form a relaxed curve in your lower back (don’t
slouch) and if possible adjust your back rest to provide support in this position.
• Remove any obstacle under your desk that prevents you sitting in front of the
keyboard and screen.
• Try to arrange your desk with the main items you need most frequently within easy
reach.
• Adjust your screen angle to suit your sitting position and minimize reflections from
ceiling lights.
• Vary your posture and take frequent breaks from the display screen. Mix DSE and
other types of work.
This is by no means an exhaustive list of tips but includes those that can be applied in most
situations. Remember, these tips apply when using a notebook or laptop as well as using a
desktop computer and you should try to adopt them when working at home as well as in
the University.
Field Trips and Other Study Visits
Students may be exposed to a range of different hazards whilst on field trips and other site
visits and in recognition of this, there is a separate Code of Practice for them. All field
trips and study visits are subject to individual risk assessments that will identify the level
of risk associated with any particular hazards and the appropriate control measures.
Students will be required to comply with any instructions or other requirements whilst
participating in field trips or study visits.
17 Policy on Intellectual Property
The School of Architecture & Construction requires its students to abide by the
University’s Policy on Exploitation of Intellectual Property. Under this Policy, students
who enroll at the University agree as a condition of enrolment to assign to the University
any coursework which they produce during their studies. There may be instances where
students produce work which, while not directly contributing to their coursework,
nonetheless makes use of the expertise, facilities and resources available at the University.
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