It is very important that you safe-guard yourself during installing hardware components and to not cause harm to the computer system. Exposure to Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) is one main issues on how internal hardware components get damaged, for example if the motherboard is in contact with ESD it will make the motherboard non-functional, due high charge being exposed to the chip-set. ESD is basically is a high electric current that flows between two objects, which can damage electronic conductors.
Here are some safety tips on how to safe-guard yourself from electric shock and dealing with incidence when working with computers, also describing prevention of ESD to hardware components:
To avoid the risk of electrostatic discharge (ESD), which can damage the computers components beyond repair, make sure you wear anti-static wrist strap to avoid damage to the components.
If a person has experienced electric shock when working with internal components of the computer and is unconscious turn off the power from the mains outlet and call for help e.g. call 999. Also you must not give physical contact to the person that has experienced electric shock because electric current might still be flowing through their body.
When cuts and abrasions appear for instance lifting computers, make sure you cover the cuts and abrasions immediately to prevent further injury. Also if the cuts and abrasions are serious call for help.
Before operating with internal components of the computer make sure that you comply with Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974.
Do not touch the metal connectors on peripheral cards and memory modules, for example PCI, AGP, PCI Express, RAM etc because if electronic charge comes in contact with the connector, the peripheral card or memory modules may not function because the transistors may be damaged
Make sure cables, which are connected to the computer, are not in sight where people can injure them selves e.g. tripping up on cable.
If the Power-Supply-Unit (PSU) has failed don’t repair it because there is a risk of electric shock, which may cause death or injury. Due to high current flow therefore replace the failed PSU with a new one.
Internal components, which are sensitive to ESD; memory modules, CPU, Motherboard, Hard Drive electronics and Solid State Drive.
When using a screwdriver make sure you don’t have the component in your hand when screwing or unscrewing because the screwdriver might slip and go through your hand. Screw or unscrew the component on a flat surface like a table.
Do not expose liquids to internal components; make sure the work area is clear from any liquids because liquids can also damage the internal components beyond repair.
My Health & Safety Poster
Useful Links:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electrostatic_discharge
http://www.bbc.co.uk/schools/gcsebitesize/ict/implications/3healthandsafetyrev1.shtml
http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Employment/HealthAndSafetyAtWork/DG_10026668
