Sunday 22 June 2014

Occupational Health and Safety

Power access

            Incorrect use of power to office equipment can case hazards. The following can be prevented by correct use of power access:
  • Electric shock
  • Jolting or falling
  • Burns
  • Fire
             Power accidents can be caused by unsafe work practices, work environments and/or poor insulation.

You should not:
  • Use double adaptors
  • Use frayed leads
  • Force plugs into sockets
  • Attempt to repair an electrical malfunction
 You should:
  • Positioning equipment close to power points
  • Plug in cords when the power is switched off
  • Use a “Standards” approved power board if several items of equipment are in use
  • Start up and use equipment in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions
  • Switch machines off in accordance with manual and manufacturer’s instructions
  • Remove plugs from power sockets by holding the plug (not the cord)
  • Ensure that the correct power sources voltage is used
  • Install and position equipment in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions
  • Refer to manufacturers’ manuals for correct power usage guidelines.
             As well as power dangers, lacerations and cuts from sharp objects and paper should also be prevented.

Safety procedures and work habits

            It is usual foe new office machines and equipment to be covered by supplier’s or manufacturer’s warranty for three to 12 months. This means that inherent defects of the machine will be repaired without charge. Remember that damage caused by misuse will have to be paid for by the owner.

            Organizations may take out maintenance agreements to cover service calls, but replacement parts usually incur an extra charge. The length of time a machine is out of service while waiting for repair (called “down time”) is a serious consideration.

            You can help keep expensive equipment in good working order by observing correct procedures and work habits. Some points to be bear in mind are:

You should not:
  • Eat, drink or smoke when working
  • Use correction fluids near equipment
  • Use household cleaners on machines-they usually contain ingredients that are too abrasive
  • Leave finger marks, dirt or correction fluid on the glass top or white surface of the photocopier
  • Locate your computer adjacent to electronic typewriter or facsimile machines-the magnetic radiation from them will affect the computer’s operation
 You should:
  • Use a soft brush to clean dust particles from keyboards
  • Use correct cleaning materials, for example solutions, sprays, wipes, wands, cleaning brushes and lint-free cloths (check with the supplier for advice)
  • Set up a cleaning materials kit close to the equipment
  • Establish a regular routine (preferably weekly) for cleaning equipment in your care
  • Investigate the availability of computer cleaning kits from chemical suppliers
  • Keep computers out of direct sunlight and make sure that vent have at least 20 mm of space so that the computer can “breathe”. Computers tend to overheat when there is insufficient space for ventilation
  • Use correct start up and shut down procedures to avoid corrupting and losing valuable data




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