Ergonomics

When contributing to an open-source project, like other computing activities, the main risks are:

• muscle and skeleton impact
• mental health impact
• eyes impact

Workstation ergonomics

The first important point is the workstation ergonomics. You need to sit in a correct position, with correct placement of what surrounds you.

The NIH Office of Research Services maintains for their own use a comprehensive checklist of the points to check.

INRS also maintain such a risks list in French, with nice illustrations.

Whatever those positions, it's very important to move, not be too static. One of the best way to achieve that is to keep a physical activity on the side. Do also regular breaks to move.

Mental health

Frequent pauses are needed, 5 minutes par hour, to gain concentration back.

Research hints open-source maintainers are at risk for burnout. Some guides try to address this topic, for example https://opensource.guide/maintaining-balance-for-open-source-maintainers/

Eyes

When doing a pause, look far away from your screen (regarder au loin).

Consider to use blue light filter (software or screen hardware) after sunset.