HSE press release - E053:03 - 14 April 2003
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) today expressed concern about advice given in some computer magazines to home computer owners on how to install electrostatic sensitive components in computers.
To prevent damage to components from static electricity computer owners are being given the potentially dangerous advice to:
The HSE warns that this procedure can be dangerous. If there is a fault in the computer power supply, or if the electric socket is wired incorrectly, the computer chassis can become live and give a fatal electric shock.
To protect themselves, as well as static-sensitive equipment, HSE would recommend that home computer owners:
If instructions on discharging static are provided by the component manufacturer, follow them before unpacking the component; and after installing new components, replace computer covers before connecting the computer to the mains. Following these instructions should keep owners safe.
All enquiries from journalists should be directed to the HSE Press Office
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