What Hazards Are There in a Computer Room?
Safety hazards in computer labs, data centers or server rooms include electrocution, hot spots from servers and heavy equipment lifting, according to Processor. Electrocution can occur because of exposed wires, arcing faults due to high voltage, and equipment repair. Hot spots from servers cause fires if they get hot enough. People who move heavy equipment should use hydraulic systems instead of manual lifting.
Workers who install or repair electrical equipment in places with high voltage should be aware of arc flash dangers from electricity jumping through the air. When two conducting elements of electricity overcome resistance in air, current immediately jumps between them. Data Center Knowledge explains that data center computer equipment should be properly labeled with correct voltages to help prevent arc flashes. Exposed and cracked wires should be replaced as soon as possible.
There were 19 documented fires per year at U.S. data centers from 1994 to 1998, according to Processor. The number of data centers increased tenfold from 1998 to 2009, and companies have tried to reduce hot spots in data centers to help prevent fires.
Slips and trips are other safety hazards of computer labs. The University of Edinburgh explains that obstructions and wires across hallways and passageways can lead to falls in places with a lot of electrical equipment. Better lighting, clean working areas and proper floor coverings help prevent slips and trips at workplaces with a lot of computer equipment.
