Occupational Health & Safety in a Library

When working with multimedia in libraries, there are a number of issues which

need to be acknowledged in relation to health and safety in the workplace.

Everyone working with equipment should be aware of the following general

precautions:

• Inspect equipment regularly to keep it in good working order.

• Unplug broken appliances and have them repaired as soon as possible.

• Keep equipment away from water and wet areas.

• Always switch off equipment at the power point before pulling out the plug.

• Don’t overload circuits, fuses, and power points. Use a power board rather

than double adapters.

• Inspect plugs and electrical cables for damage. Have broken power points

replaced by a licensed electrician.

• Keep electrical cords off the floor. This reduces damage and the risk of

tripping.

• Know the location of the main electrical supply or fuse box.

When working with electrical equipment you have to follow:

• Know how to replace fuses and lamps correctly.

• Take care when replacing a lamp that has just been used, as it may still be

hot. Use a cloth or glove.

• Use trolleys to move heavy or bulky equipment.

• Use trolleys to raise equipment such as projectors to the correct height. Do

not balance equipment on piles of books.

• When setting up rooms with equipment, make sure that people can exit

easily and quickly. Check the position of equipment, screens and chairs.

• Know the location of fire extinguishers.

• Know the location of fire escapes and emergency exits.

• Use equipment correctly. Follow operational and safety instructions in the

manual.

Here are some tips for handling equipment safely:

• Read the manual, and follow the operational and safety

instructions.

• Never force parts of equipment that do not fit or operate easily.

However you may need to ease or jiggle a part - for example, to fit

the carousel onto a slide projector.

• Don’t drop or knock equipment.

• Wrap power cords around the leg or handle of a table or trolley.

Do not use a machine if one part, such as the fan, is not working properly, as

you may damage the equipment or software.

• Prevent heat build-up by allowing air to circulate. Do not place equipment on

a soft surface, or operate it in an enclosed area, such as a shelf.

• Keep original operating instructions secure, and keep a photocopy with the

equipment.

And some more . . .

• Test the equipment before use.

• When you replace a lamp, do not touch the glass. Use a cloth, glove or the

plastic sleeve that comes with the lamp.

Do not use a machine if one part, such as the fan, is not working properly, as

you may damage the equipment or software.

• Prevent heat build-up by allowing air to circulate. Do not place equipment on

a soft surface, or operate it in an enclosed area, such as a shelf.

• Keep original operating instructions secure, and keep a photocopy with the

equipment.