Health & Safety (Edexcel IGCSE ICT)

Repetitive strain injury (RSI)

• Damage to the fingers, wrists and joints, traditionally cause d by prolonged use of a keyboard and mouse

• Have the correct posture (angle of arms to the keyboard and mouse)

• Use a wrist support if necessary

• Take regular breaks

• Make use of ergonomic keyboards

Back/neck problems

• Sitting in front of a computer screen for prolonged periods of time

• Use adjustable chairs

• Take regular breaks

• Use a foot rest

Eye strain

• Staring at a computer screen for prolonged periods of time or incorrect lighting causing reflections

• Take regular breaks

• Use anti-glare screen filter

• Change from CRT to LCD monitor

Headaches

• A combination of factors, including:

  • Poor lighting

  • Flickering screens

  • Reflections

  • Fatigue

• Take regular breaks

• Have regular eye tests

• Use an anti-glare screen filter

Electrocution

• Spilling drinks near electrical equipment

• Keep liquids away from electrical equipment

• Touching live cables

• Ensure that cables are properly insulated and protected

• Use non-conductive materials where possible

• Ensure that electrical equipment is turned off and unplugged before cleaning or maintenance

• Use circuit breakers or fuses to prevent electrical overload

Fire hazards

• Sockets being overloaded

• Use surge protectors to prevent electrical overload

• Ensure enough plug sockets in the room

• Don’t plug too many devices into the same plug socket

• Don’t leave devices plugged in and unattended

• Equipment overheating

• Ensure that equipment is properly ventilated and not obstructed

• Keep flammable materials away from heat sources

• Regularly check equipment for signs of wear or damage

• Use fire extinguishers in case of emergencies

• Turn off or unplug devices when away from the location

• Do not cover any air vents on devices

Trip hazards

• Cables not properly secured or organised

• Use cable ties or clips to secure cables

• Keep cables away from areas where people are walking

• Secure cables where you can, like under desks to stop protruding into open areas

• Use cable covers to protect cables and prevent tripping hazards

• Regularly inspect cables for signs of wear or damage

• Where possible use wireless devices to reduce cables

Personal safety

Improperly secured equipment

• Ensure that equipment is properly secured and stable

• Regularly check the stability of locations containing devices

Equipment not placed on stable surfaces

• Keep equipment away from edges and other potential hazards

• Regularly inspect equipment and locations containing devices for signs of wear or damage