Smart device addiction could lead to ergonomic problems: Niosh

CYBERJAYA: Smart device addiction especially among children and teenagers could lead to ergonomic injuries such as spine and neck problems, National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (Niosh) chairman Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye said.
He said a pilot study conducted recently by Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) revealed that children who used smart devices in an unhealthy angle would add 27kg weight on their neck.
Lee said even though digital devices were now so important in people's daily life, parents should supervise their children to avoid future health complications.
"There are teenagers who have to undergo therapy because of carpal tunnel syndrome due to the excessive use of electronic devices.
"Nowadays, children as young as three are already addicted to smart devices," he said at the pre-launch of the 21st Conference for Occupational Safety and Health (COSH) and the 5th Scientific Conference on Occupational Safety and Health (SciCOSH) here today.
In this regard, Lee said the NioshErgonomic Centre of Excellence in Johor Baru would carry out a more in-depth study on the ergonomic aspect of the impact of the smart device addiction.
"The findings of the study will be made known to the public because Niosh is concerned about the issues that will arise in the future such as the costs for treatment or therapy," he said.
On COSH 2018 themed "Enhancing Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) in the Digital Era", he said it would be held at the Putrajaya International Convention Centre on Sept 24 and 25.
The conference is expected to draw some 1,500 participants, 100 companies and 3,000 visitors. — Bernama