IT: Mens sana in corpore sano

Welcome to the first article of MSiCS : Mens sana in corpore sano (a healthy mind in a healthy body) which is a quote from the Roman Poet of the 1st century AD, Juvenal.

I’ll be taking a look at the Best Practices of keeping you in shape so you can keep your systems in shape. This idea is not new: ‘A good deal of evidence indicates that Hellenic civilization in the 5th century BC used ergonomic principles in the design of their tools, jobs, and workplaces.’ (ref: Wikipedia).

However, working in IT has presented an entire new set of challenges to overcome.

This first MSiCS article deals with dust.

• Dust Shields for SysOps?

  Just as you protect your systems from dust, so you have to protect your own physical system from dust. Having your sinuses, lungs, eyes and ears bombarded by dust affects your ability to concentrate and be effective and it takes more than a good cleaning crew to make that happen.
  
  

• No printer/copier zone

  Make sure that your work station is the manufacturer’s recommended distance away from any large copier or printer. Ideally they should be located behind a partition or in a separate room. Small lazer printers should never be on your desk if you can help it.
  

• Breathe!

  Try to get outside during the day, away from recycled/stale air, even if it’s only for 5 minutes. Take a few deep breaths. It will help clear your mind as well as your lungs.
  

• Shredder / White Board Menace

  Keep shredders at a good distance from your computer and yourself. They generate a tremendous amount of particulate. Make sure they’re emptied frequently. White boards and chalk boards can be just as bad. Make sure they’re properly cleaned (not just erased) regularly.
  

• White Glove Treatment?

  No need to go as far as checking every surface of your workspace but if you have concerns, check with your office manager, especially if your team has been experiencing a lot of sick days. This can sometimes be due to cleaning related issues.

Here’s to keeping your systems, your area and yourself functioning at optimal capacity.