Computer Environmental Maintenance & Safety

Maintaining a safe environment can keep your computer running smoothly and extend its life. This involves ensuring that computers are not exposed to extreme temperatures.

Temperatures

Computers and peripherals function best at room temperature. If very cold temperatures cause condensation to form on a computer, wipe off the moisture and do not turn on the computer until it has dried out. Otherwise, you could destroy the hard drive.

Significance

Computers are affected by environmental conditions because they contain electrical components that do not mix well with water. Ensure that your computer is not accidentally exposed to water by keeping drinks well away from it and not positioning it too close to an open window.

Workplace Environment

Companies also have a responsibility to provide a safe computer environment for their employees. Ensuring that desks and computers are positioned in a way that won't cause discomfort and potential injury is one example of this.

Considerations

A room temperature of between 65 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit is ideal for maintaining computer hardware, according to the PC Guide website. Stopping computer equipment from overheating will also help extend its lifespan. Laptop fan vents, for example, should be regularly cleared to prevent overheating.

References

• PC Guide: Ambient Temperature and Acclimation
• Lasa Knowledgebase: Computer Health and Safety