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Lesson 3 Safety Precautions
Lesson 3 Safety Precautions
These are general guidelines for all types of troubleshooting, installation, and maintenance
tasks. Take them seriously; they may keep you out of a dangerous situation, protect equipment
from damage and protect the environment.
Before repairing any electronic device, it is important to know the hazards and safety
factors. Use extreme care and follow these safety procedures at all times.
1. The workspace should be situated away from carpeted areas because carpets can cause the
buildup of electrostatic charges.
2. It should be a nonconductive surface.
Static electricity is created whenever two materials are rubbed together and electrons are
transferred from one material to the other. This imbalance in electron distribution is equalized
when the charged objected is connected with a ground path, which causes a rapid transference of
electrons.
Human senses cannot detect a static electric charge of less than 2500 volts. A static
electric charge of 3000 volts or more will create the familiar spark when you touch a light switch, a
piece of metal, or another person. It is not uncommon to create a static electric charge of up to
30,000 volts, by simply "shushing" across carpet wearing leather-soled shoes. With most
computer electronics running at three to five volts, it is easy to see how this static electric charge
can destroy these devices. In fact, only a 10-volt static discharge through a device rated at five
volts can destroy it.
ESD Effects
Some microcircuits are more prone to ESD damage than others. Older Transistor-
Transistor Logic (TTL) chips are more robust than the newer Complementary Metal Oxide
Semiconductor (CMOS) chips.
To prevent destruction to components by ESD, static must be equalized between you and
the equipment being serviced.
Power Fluctuation
Proper Disposal
Batteries from portable computer systems may contain lead, cadmium, lithium, alkaline
manganese, and mercury. Recycling batteries should be a standard practice for a
technician.
Monitors contain up to 4 pounds of lead, as well as rare earth metals. Monitors must be
disposed of in compliance with environmental regulations.
Used printer toner kits and printer cartridges must be disposed of properly or recycled.
Contact the local sanitation company to learn how and where to dispose of the chemicals
and solvents used to clean computers.
Use the proper type and size of screwdriver by matching it to the screw. Phillips, Flat Head
and Hex are the most common types.
Do not over tighten screws because the threads may become stripped.
Caution: If excessive force is needed to remove or add a component, something may be
wrong.
Caution: Magnetized tools should not be used around electronic devices.
Caution: Pencils should not be used inside the computer because the pencil lead can act as
a conductor and may damage the computer components.