Specific Outcome
On completion of this section you will be able to demonstrate an understanding of the use of safety measures and procedures.
Assessment Criteria
On completion of this section you will be able to:
- The demonstration explains safety measure for different types of fires and which applies to computer environments. (SO 2, AC 1)
- The demonstration covers potential hazards and safety procedures relating to the computer. (SO 2, AC 2)
- The demonstration cover Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) and precautions for it. (SO 2, AC 3)
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1 INTRODUCTION
The number of computers in the workplace has increased rapidly over the last few years and it is now quite normal for most staff in organisations to be exposed to computer usage. It is the responsibility of the organisation to take steps to minimise risks for all workers.
Let us look at some of the key safety precautions when using computers;
The display screen
This should:
- display well-defined characters of adequate size and spacing
- have a stable image
- have easily adjustable brightness and contrast
- tilt and swivel easily to suit the user
- be free from glare and reflections
- use a separate base for the screen, or an adjustable table.
· The keyboard
This should:
- be tiltable and separate from the screen to allow the user to adopt a comfortable working position
- have a space in front to provide support for the hands or arms of the user
- have a matt surface
- have clearly legible symbols on the keys.
· The work surface
The work surface should:
- provide adequate space for the user
- have a low reflective surface
- be of adequate size to allow the screen, keyboard, etc to be flexibly arranged
- have a stable, adjustment document holder, which should be at the same level as the screen and at the same viewing distance.
· The work chair
This should have a seat that is adjustable in height, with a seat back adjustable in height and tilt. A footrest should be available.
The workstation/environment
The workstation must do the following:
- provide sufficient space for the user or the operator to alter position comfortably
- lighting must be adequate with suitable contrast between the screen and background
- glare and reflections on the screen should be avoided
- Windows should be fitted with adjustable coverings to alter the daylight level.
- When a workstation is shared by more than one person, it should be assessed in respect of each person.
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