Introduction Computer vision syndrome (CVS) is the combination of vision and eye problems associated with the use of computers. The CVS may have a significant impact on visual comfort and also in occupational productivity of computer users. The symptoms may include eyestrain, headaches, ocular discomfort, dry eye, diplopia and blurred vision after long time computer use. This paper aims to identify the frequency of visual complaints in workers who usually use computer and evaluate ergonomics conditions in the workplace.

Methods Cross-sectional observational study performed in the administrative sector of an environmental sanitation company in the city of Santo André, southeastern of Brazil. The population was 31 computer using workers. They answered questionnaire about sociodemographic data, ergonomics knowledge and clinical complaints. It was assessed near visual acuity, using Jaeger table. Checklists for ergonomic evaluation and luminance mensuration were performed in the workplaces.

Results Most participantes were female (77.42%) and over 40 years old (54.84%). The median was five years at work. They reported breaks every two hours (48,4) and had knowledge about workstation ergonomic adjustments (80,6%). The ergonomic checklist to using computer workplace indicated a good ergonomic condition. The luminance mensurations were insufficient in 9.7% of the workstations. All of them have sufficient near acuity but visual correction was necessary for 80.6%. CVS complaints were reported by 45.2% of the participants.

Conclusion There are CVS cases in this population but there isn’t problems as participants with bad visual acuity, low luminance of workstations or bad ergonomic workplace conditions. It’s necessary to study others causes of CVS, such as psychosocial factors at work, to program policies for this problem. Eyes health is related with quality of life and productivity among workers. To establish regular occupational evaluations about ambiental conditions and workers health is indicated to earlier detection of problemas and implement adequate corrections.