Indicators Observation

Computer Lab / Classroom

1. Is the housekeeping satisfactory?
2. Is the lighting adequate?
3. Is the floor in good condition?
4. Are the aisle widths and other paths of travel adequate?
5. Are the entrances and exits adequate?
6. Are emergency procedures (with guidelines for disabled persons) clearly posted?
7. Is the classroom furniture in good repair and positioned safely?
Power Cords and Cables
1. Are the proper cords and plugs used?
2. Are all cords in good condition (no fraying or exposed wires)?
3. Are all plugs in good condition (no cracks or broken pieces) and firmly attached to
cords?
4. Are cords secured to avoid a tripping hazard?
Chairs
1. Are the chairs adjustable?
2. Does the backrest adequately support the lumbar area?
3. Do chairs have rounded seat edges to help maintain blood circulation in the legs?
4. Does the seat allow for the comfortable and supportive positioning of the legs, torso and
arms?
Mice and Keyboards
1. Are wrist or palm rests available?
2. Is a variety of mice available to fit the different sized hands of students?
3. Can the height of the mouse be adjusted so it is located beside the body just above the
keyboard tray?
4. Is the height of keyboards adjustable?
5. Is keystroke pressure adjustable?
6. Is the angle of the keyboard adjustable (to maintain the hands in a neutral hand
position)?
7. Are portable keyboards (which tend to be smaller than regular keyboards) or reduced
size keyboards available for students with smaller hands?
Monitors (video display terminals)
1. Can workstations (chair, monitor, etc.) be arranged so:
• the top of the screen is at eye level (or a level that doesn’t stress
the neck or eyes)?
• their eyes are a comfortable distance from the screen (usually about one arm
length)?
• the keyboard is just below elbow height
2. Are monitors placed perpendicular to windows to reduce glare?
3. Are anti-glare screens available?
Does the work surface have an anti-glare surface to reduce light
reflection?
Directions: Ask students to work in small groups (2-4 persons) and think about specific,
possible computer laboratory or classroom hazards that could fall into the categories listed in
handout.

COMPUTER LABORATORY/CLASSROOM HAZARDS CONDITION