Week 1
Main Physical Safety Risks in ICT
Electrocution
Cause: Faulty electrical equipment, exposed wires, or improper handling of devices connected to
power sources.
Risks: Severe injuries, burns, or even fatalities due to electric shocks.
Preventive Measures:
- Regularly inspect and maintain electrical equipment.
- Use properly grounded outlets and surge protectors.
- Avoid handling electrical devices with wet hands or in damp environments.
Fire Hazards
Cause: Overloaded power sockets, faulty wiring, or malfunctioning ICT equipment.
Risks: Fires can destroy equipment, data, and pose a threat to human safety.
Preventive Measures:
- Avoid overloading electrical outlets.
- Ensure proper ventilation for devices to prevent overheating.
- Use re-resistant materials and install re extinguishers in ICT environments.
Equipment Overheating
Cause: Poor ventilation, blocked air vents, or excessive use of devices without breaks.
Risks: Can lead to equipment damage, reduced lifespan, and potential re hazards.
Preventive Measures:
- Keep devices in well-ventilated areas.
- Regularly clean air vents and cooling systems.
- Use cooling pads or fans for high-performance equipment.
Tripping Hazards
Cause: Loose cables and wires scattered across workspaces.
Risks: Can lead to falls, injuries, and damage to equipment if cables are pulled out accidentally.
Preventive Measures:
- Organise cables using cable management systems like cable ties or conduits.
- Place cables away from walkways and secure them against walls or under desks.
- Use wireless devices where possible to reduce clutter.
Falling Equipment
Cause: Improperly secured hardware such as monitors, servers, or printers placed on unstable
surfaces.
Risks: Can cause injuries to individuals and damage expensive equipment.
Preventive Measures:
- Secure heavy equipment on stable surfaces or mounts.
- Avoid stacking items unsafely or beyond their weight limits.
- Educate sta on safe handling of ICT equipment.
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