IGT Computer Engineering Lab

CPE 301 Lab

Also used for CPE 406/606

Read this material carefully!

After reading this material, please answer the attached questions, sign and return the last page at the beginning of your
first Lab session.

Safety Issues and Guidelines

Introduction:
The CPE 301 and CPE 406/606 classes, working in the IGT Computer Engineering Lab (323 SEM), requires the use of
many electrical and mechanical devices. The improper use of this equipment can present serious hazards to human health.
The purpose of this paper is to address safety issues and minimize danger in the lab.
More material on safety is available in the laboratory. This handout is required reading.
Students Rights and Responsibilities:
All safety programs have the unwavering support of the faculty and staff. Each person in the lab is responsible for the
safety of every other person in the laboratory. Each student should feel free to correct each other and point out any safety
deficiencies in the lab. Students have the right and the responsibility to identify unsafe actions, procedures or conditions
without jeopardizing their grade.

Electrical Hazards:
Electricity is the most dangerous component of this lab. Electrical shock can cause serious injuries and even death. Low
voltage does not imply low hazard. It only takes 50mA of current to KILL you. Therefore the following precautions
should be implemented:
- When working on a circuit, disconnect the power.
- When troubleshooting, place one hand behind your back or in a pocket.
The most dangerous current path is through the chest.
Current enters one hand, flows through the chest, and exits through the other.
- Remove jewelry when working with electronics.
- Wear rubber soled shoes.
- Do not tamper with electrical outlets and do not plug or unplug equipment.
- Use the fixed 5V supply and check to make sure that it is 5 volts.
- Capacitors can stay charged for long periods of time. Discharge them (safely) before working on a circuit.
- Do not work in the lab alone.
- Polarized capacitors can explode if the voltage is reversed. Make sure they are properly connected.
- Keep your hands dry.
- No food or drink in the lab.
- Know how to shut power off to a piece of equipment.
- If you do not know how to operate a piece of equipment, DON'T.

If you have any questions, ask.

If you see any unsafe conditions, tell your TA or a faculty member.

Mechanical Hazards:
Do not move any equipment in the lab. Lots of the equipment in the lab is heavy and can cause injuries when dropped.
Basic Rules:
- Keep all tools in good condition.
- Use the right tool for the job.
- Examine each tool before use.
- Operate tools only according to the manufacturer's instructions.
- Keep workspace clean.

Thermal Hazards:
Soldering irons may be used for assembling the projects. The soldering iron can produce temperatures above 800 F and
can cause severe burns. Caution must be exercised when using soldering irons. If you do not know how to operate the
irons, consult the lab instructor. Unplug all soldering irons when finished.
Integrated circuits can become very hot if they are improperly energized. They can get hot enough to cause burns. Check
your circuit for reversed polarity before you apply electrical power.

UV Hazards:
EPROM erasers use ultra-violet light to erase EPROMs. When the drawer is opened, the lamp should turn off. However,
use caution when using these devices and do not tamper with them. Erasers should be unplugged when not in use.

Chemical Hazards:
This lab may require soldering and therefore, the use of solder. The following is a list of toxins in solder: Lead, Tin,
Silver, Bismuth, Antimony, Copper, and Indium. Ingestion and inhalation of solder smoke can affect kidneys,
gastrointestinal, reproductive and neurological systems.
Solder is not explosive and is very stable. Do not melt solder above 1000 F. This will liberate highly toxic lead and
antimony fumes.
Precautions:
- Store away from sulfur.
- Wash hands before eating or smoking.
- Avoid breathing fumes.
- Use of strong acids may result in liberation of toxic lead chloride fumes.
- Use of goggles is suggested.
The MATERIAL SAFETY DATA SHEET for 60/40 rosin core solder is posted on Webcampus in the course's "Course
Syllabus, Lecture Notes, and Lab Safety" folder. A printed copy is also available from the course instructor or the course
teaching assistant.

General Safety Rules:

- "Horseplay" is hazardous and will not be tolerated.
- No student will work alone.
- No loose clothing, especially at the drill press.
- Worn or frayed power cords or those with broken connections must not be used.
- All aisles and exits must remain clear and unblocked.
- The instructions on all warning signs must be read and obeyed.
- Keep area clean.
- Eating, drinking, tobacco products and application of makeup are prohibited.
- All injuries, accidents and "near misses" must be reported.

Quiz Questions:
1.

When troubleshooting a "live" circuit, where should your hand(s) be?

2.

What current level is needed to produce death?

3.

Before applying electrical power to your circuit, what should you check for to avoid burning chips?

4.

Why shouldnt you melt solder above 1000 F?

5.

What should be done with the EPROM erasers when theyre not in use?

I certify by my signature below that I have read the Safety Issues and Guidelines for CPE 301 Laboratory and that I
understand them and that I will abide by them.

Name (print):

Signature:

Date: