E-waste and health

The essentials

E-waste (electronic waste) means discarded electronic devices such as computers, mobile phones, televisions, printers and batteries. It is growing quickly because devices are replaced often. Using computers for long hours also affects health, so safe working habits are important.

Key points

• Hazards of e-waste: devices contain toxic substances such as lead, mercury, cadmium and beryllium. When e-waste is dumped in landfills or burnt in the open, these can pollute soil, water and air and harm the nervous system, kidneys, lungs and skin of people exposed to them.
• Management of e-waste: follow reduce, reuse, recycle. Reduce purchases by using devices longer; reuse by repairing, donating or selling working devices; recycle through authorised recyclers who recover metals and plastics safely.
• In India, e-waste management rules make producers responsible for collecting and channelling e-waste to authorised recyclers (extended producer responsibility).
• Health risks of computer use: eye strain (dry, tired eyes and blurred vision), neck and back pain from poor posture, repetitive strain injuries of wrists and fingers, and sleep problems from late-night screen use. Excessive use can also lead to Internet addiction and isolation.
• Ergonomics: the science of designing furniture, equipment and workspaces to fit the user, reducing strain. Examples: an adjustable chair with back support, the top of the screen at or slightly below eye level, feet flat on the floor, wrists straight while typing.
• Eye care tips: blink often, keep the screen at about arm's length, adjust brightness, and take regular breaks by looking at distant objects.

Common mistakes

• Thinking e-waste is safe because it is solid; the danger comes from the chemicals inside.
• Thinking ergonomics is about computer speed; it is about fitting the workplace to the human body.