What is physical safety?
Creating a safe environment when using technology.
What does physical safety include?
Considering dangers that could lead to serious injury or loss of life.
What must be done regarding dangers in physical safety?
Identify strategies to reduce or prevent them.
List physical safety risks.
Electrocution from spilled drinks
Fire hazard from overloaded sockets
Equipment overheating
Trailing cables (trip hazard)
Heavy equipment falling
What causes electrocution in ICT environments?
Spilling drinks near electrical equipment
Touching live cables
How can electrocution be prevented?
Keep liquids away
Ensure cables are insulated
Use non-conductive materials
Turn off/unplug before cleaning
Use circuit breakers/fuses
What causes fire hazards?
Overloading sockets.
How can fire hazards be prevented?
Use surge protectors
Ensure enough sockets
Avoid plugging too many devices
Don’t leave devices unattended
What causes overheating?
Poor ventilation or blocked airflow.
How to prevent overheating?
Ensure proper ventilation
Keep flammable materials away
Check for damage regularly
Use fire extinguishers
Turn off devices when not in use
Don’t cover air vents
What causes trip hazards?
Loose or poorly organised cables.
How to prevent trip hazards?
Use cable ties/clips
Keep cables away from walkways
Secure cables under desks
Use cable covers
Inspect cables regularly
Use wireless devices if possible
What causes personal injury from equipment?
Unsecured equipment
Equipment placed on unstable surfaces
How to prevent equipment-related injuries?
Secure equipment properly
Check stability regularly
Keep equipment away from edges
Inspect for damage
Give four physical safety issues from using computers.
Electrocution (liquids/bare wires)
Falling equipment
Tripping over cables
Fire from overheating/overloading
What is the Data Protection Act?
A law that protects personal data from misuse.
Give examples of personal data.
Name
Address
Date of birth
Race
Religion
When does DPA NOT apply?
Domestic use (friends/family)
Law enforcement (police investigations)
Intelligence services (e.g. MI5)
What does Principle 1 state?
Data must be processed fairly and lawfully.
Example?
School collecting data for emergencies.
What does Principle 2 state?
Data must only be used for stated purposes.
Example?
Using phone number for marketing without permission.
What does Principle 3 state?
Data must be relevant and not excessive.
Example?
Bank asking unnecessary travel history.
