3 Safety in the IT Workplace

Workstation and ergonomic safety

Set up the workstation to support a comfortable, neutral posture. Sit with your head balanced over your torso, shoulders relaxed, and lower back supported. Keep your feet flat on the floor or use a footrest.

Position the monitor directly in front of you, with its top at or just below eye level. Place it at a distance that lets you read without leaning forward. Keep the keyboard and mouse close, at about elbow height; keep your wrists straight and elbows near your body rather than reaching or bending your wrists for long periods.

Keep frequently used items within easy reach. Reduce glare and adjust lighting for screen and paper tasks. Change posture and vary tasks when possible, and take brief recovery pauses: prolonged static sitting or standing can contribute to discomfort and fatigue.

For extended laptop work, if the screen makes you hunch, raise the laptop display and connect an external keyboard and mouse. Adjust the setup so the screen and hands can be positioned comfortably.

Recognize and prevent hazards

A Hazard is a condition or activity that could cause injury or illness if it is not controlled. Common IT workplace hazards include damaged power cords, loose cables across walkways, unstable stacks of equipment, obstructed exits, wet areas near electrical devices, and awkward lifting or reaching.

Inspect the work area and equipment, including before moving or installing devices. Keep walkways and exits clear. Route cables so they do not create a trip hazard, and do not pinch them under furniture or doors. Keep liquids away from electrical equipment, and store heavy items low and stable.

If a hazard cannot be corrected safely, stop the task and notify a supervisor or the responsible facilities or safety team. Report near misses as well as injuries so hazards can be addressed before someone is hurt.

Electrical and equipment safety

Check equipment and cords for visible damage before use. Do not use equipment with frayed, crushed, or exposed wiring, a damaged plug, or missing grounding features. Remove damaged items from service and label or report them according to workplace procedure; do not attempt an unauthorized repair.

Use approved power equipment as intended. Do not overload outlets or connect power strips together unless workplace guidance specifically permits it.

Before cleaning, servicing, or opening a device, follow the manufacturer's instructions and your organization's procedure. Power the device down and disconnect it from its power source when required. Internal power supplies and other electrical components may remain hazardous; work on them only if you are trained and authorized. Never handle plugs or electrical equipment with wet hands.

Move and handle IT assets safely

Plan a move before lifting or carrying a computer, monitor, printer, server, or battery. Check the load's size, weight, grip, route, and destination. Clear the path and use a cart or other suitable moving aid when available. If an item is too heavy, bulky, or awkward to control alone, ask for assistance or use approved equipment; do not guess at a safe weight limit.

When lifting is appropriate, keep the item close to your body, avoid twisting, and turn by moving your feet. Do not carry a load that blocks your view or climb a ladder while holding equipment. Set devices down securely so they cannot fall, and never lift or lower equipment by its power cord or cables.

Protect components from ESD

Electronic components can be damaged by electrostatic discharge (ESD). When servicing components, follow the device manufacturer's instructions and the organization's ESD procedure. Use the specified grounding equipment, handle components by their edges rather than by contacts or circuitry, and keep them in antistatic packaging when they are not being installed.