A recent study has estimated that as many as 70 percent of office workers are affected by some form of RSI / OOS.
KeyBreak is an electronic device that forces keyboard users to take regular breaks. It monitors their work rate and provides an easy indicator of when they should rest. If users ignore the warning then KeyBreak locks the keyboard and forces them take a break for a few seconds.
The device adjusts the period between breaks by comparing your actual speed to your usual work speed and users quickly develop a routine of regular breaks. The design has been developed in consultation with the local RSI support group and is supported by Occupational health experts.
Studies have shown that if you relax or stretch you muscles during that break then the blood flow to the hands and arms is restored helping to prevent OOS/RSI. The benefits of the rest routine are documented in the users manual and make compelling reading.
Employers, Medical Insurers and Workplace Unions are all showing considerable interest in the product following the recent judgement against a NZ employer for not providng adequate equipment or education to prevent an employee suffering OOS / RSI. This precidient setting court case is likely to open the floodgate on claims and litigation against employers.
This product is still under final testing and is expected to be released in late April 95. Please contact the designers to be placed on the mailing list and be offered first access to product on its release.
For further info:
Grant Wells,
Operations Manager
New Zealand Electronic Research
P.O.Box 33-182
Christchurch
New Zealand.
Email :gwells@nzer.co.nz