What is wrong with eating, drinking and smoking in the computer room?

Sunday, March 6th, 2011 | Computer Usage

A sign telling you that eating, drinking or smoking are not allowed is found in most computer rooms.

This rule is there for good reasons.

Drinking is discouraged because liquid spills can damage the equipment.  Liquid may cause your keyboard to cease functioning.  If you’re using a laptop, the liquid may trickle to the inside and damage your entire machine.

When you’re eating, crumbs will fall on the keyboard and it’s nearly impossible to get them out.  These crumbs may not cause problems immediately, but they all add up.  Sticky fingers cause dirt to accumulate wherever you touch the computer.

Eating or drinking may also cause discomfort to others in the room.  Imagine how irritating crunching of potato crisps can be when you’re trying to concentrate, or what the effect of the smell of spicy, garlicky food will have on you.

As far as smoking is concerned … well, you know how much damage it does to your lungs (and to the lungs of those around you).  The smoke and ash particles are likewise damaging to computer equipment. 

These rules are not for learners only.  They also apply to teachers, even when they are in the computer room after hours, preparing lessons or catching up on admin work.

Tags: Computer Usage, computers, laptops

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