Length of work period

Work/rest schedules should be appropriate. It is important to take breaks away from the microscope to counteract the build up of postural and visual fatigue. A well designed job will incorporate both microscope and non microscope tasks. Frequent short breaks are preferable to occasional long breaks. This enables relief from the static, maintained working posture and a chance to look around and vary the accommodation of the eyes. Computer users are recommended to take 5 minutes every hour away from the computer; it may be preferable to take half hourly breaks away from the microscope.