Health concerns on computer use

Ross, Peggy E. 2008.Ergonomics : Improving safety in the laboratory environment. Retrieved on September 23, 2009 at http://proquest.umi.com/pqdweb?did=1599441801&Fmt=3&clientld=57020&RQT=309&VName=PQD

Abstract of the article :

The article identify all ergomonie stressors that influence risk for a particular job. Cited examples are laboratory jobs, they varied and may include the use of microscopes, fumehoods, chemicals, pipettes, flasks, glove boxes, automated analyzers, compressed gases, computers and similar equipment . They enumerated stressors that workers experienced with corresponding tips on how to avoid or lessened stress and how to work comfortably through proper evaluation of furniture or tools while on the job. Understanding the concepts of general ergonomics and how they translate to the lab environment provides the foundation for a solid ergonomic program. A strong ergonomic program will protect lab workers and benefit the company.

Lessons Learned :

1. These are the things to consider in using computers especially those who really devoted their time in using computers on their job,a.) Keyboards should be placed to the worker's elbows at approximately 9 Q angle.b.) Monitors should be placed directly in front of the worker with the top of the monitor just below eye level to promote neutral neck posture.c.) Avoid placing the computer in a position where glare from the window reflects on the monitor screen or in the worker's eye.d.) The mouse should also be within easy reach.

2. It is important to identify all ergonomie stressors that influence risk for a particular job. Posture is another important consideration when evaluating the ergonomie stressors and determining the level of risk.

3. If a worker is experiencing a health problem such as fracture, diabetes or circulatory problems he/she is at greater risk of encountering pain or injury. Major ergonomie hazards include repetitive movement, excessive dynamic force, prolong statis force or posture; direct pressure and exposure to cold.

Implication to work :

As a librarian we cannot avoid the use of computers especially now in the age of technology. Computers serves as a tool in doing our work done especially in cataloging books and daily transactions to the library users. Let us always remember that were not making money to live or rather than we live just to make money in return we let our health suffer. As the saying goes " health is wealth" so to avoid unnecessary stress, pain, injuries, blurred visions consider the proper usage of computer. Proper posture is number one. If ever were experiencing uncomfortable use of computer don't be afraid to report it to our heads so that they could make proper action on it.

9th Reading Assignment : Rules of court on electronic evidence

Troy, Christopher L. "Electrifying" : Changes to the Federal Discovery Rules .[electronic version].The Brief 36 (3), 2007.

http://proquest.umi.com/pqdweb?did=1405537601&Fmt+3&clientld=57020&RQT=309&VName=PQD

Abstract of the artticle :

Issues concerning the preservation of electronic evidence continue to arise with increasing frequency. Until recently, courts have offered little guidance on this issue. The new rules should serve as a wake up call to attorneys and their clients, both of whom must now become familiar with the data storage systems and policies or risk violating the new rules. Sanctions may be imposed in the form of fines or depend upon jury instructions. Now many attorneys and judges posses a better understanding of computer and electronic documents. They are not so easily persuaded that deleted or corrupted data is unrecoverable.

Lessons learned:

1. Electronic records and information differ from hard copy records in several aspects. First, it is easier and more convenient to retain and retrieve informatio electronically than in hard copy.

2. Information stored electronically can be changed over time and may be falsify when separated from the system and or software through which it was created.

3. Electronically stored data is fast becoming relevant than paper evidence. The amended rules give the courts the flexibility to learn what is not accessible and what is not accesible.

Reflections /Impact from work:

The new trends in technology has fast spreading to everyone. Electronic devices is easily accessible to all this includes mobile phones, fax machines, internet through emails. As a librarian let us be a responsible user of electronic devices let's not abuse the use of it. Don't dwell in sending sexist jokes, pornographic pictures and offensive letters. Be careful in sending emails to others because this could be used against you in the future.

Open Source Software

Chuvnov, Daniel. What Librarians Still Don't Know About Free Sotware [Electronic version].Computer in Libraries 29 (2), Feb 2009. http//proquest.umi.com/pqdweb?did=169779181&Fmt=3&clientld=57020&RQT=309&VName=PQD

Abstract of the article:

Talking about open source software is about the freedom. It is not about the cost but the four aspects of freedom. These are the freedom to use the software for any purpose. The freedom to study how the software works, the freedom to modify the software to adapt it to your needs, and the freedom to copy and share copies of the software, with or without any vhanges you might make to it. These freedoms are enshrined in free software and open source licenses which use copyright law and licensing terms to enforce them.

Lessons Learned:

1. Open source technology delivers free access with unrestricted use and flexibility, sharing of intellectual property.
2.Use, study, modify and copy is a summary of both what free software is and why free software works.
3. I am now ware that I am using open source software in doing my work, free software helps me get my work done.

Reflections / Impact on Work:

Many new devices use more advanced technology I use all these things all the time. Really, I do everyday, Free software is being used all over the world, even at home especially now in the library and business sector. In our daily transactions such as searching to google, using Facebook, receiving and sending email and as a librarian in doing my cataloging tasks in using the LC in parsing MARC records. These simple stuffs that we do use free software and sometimes we are not aware of that. Now I started to value or recognized computers as one of the powerful tools in getting my work done.

Field Trip at International Rice Research Institute

Going to IRRI is really such a nice experienced. After two and half hours of travel we were able to see the place. We took our breakfast first at the IRRI cafeteria then to IRRI library. At the IRRI library we were warmly welcomed by Ms. Mila Ramos and the rest of the staff.

IRRI was founded in 1961 with a staff of twelve. It has the world's largest collection of rice literature. During the lecture we were exposed to the different information retrieval system as well as web 2.0 application in the library. I found out that the "Millenium Software " is a very user friendly. It has a complete sets of features which is ideal for any library system. Milleniem modules which consists of OPAC, Cataloging, Circulation Services, Acquisition and a peripherals with URL checker and advanced searching. I learned the use of "skype" through reference service, a loan policy where library clients may renew their own loans online for additional two weeks period. Simply indicate their name and library barcode number "Do it Yourself" renewals can be made anywhere in the world where there is an internet connection. The Ariel Document Delivery Services it is free of charge with a 3 modes of delivery- direct or instant access, electronic and conventional. To meet the growing needs and due to demands of IRRI researchers they created freely open access to journals. These can still utilized at home which is very convenient to users.

The greatest thing about all of these field trips was we would always have lunch together with our classmates (bonding time) which in returned we've learned how to build a harmonious relationship to my other classmates. I gained new sets of friends. The field trip itself strives to develop leadership, communication and critical thinking skills for all of us.

Field trips can create relevancy to our work as a librarian it connects and exposed us the used of Millenium database. As a librarian we should be flexible in changes especially in today's technology. Technology is changing the way people run their personal lives in more ways than one.