What safety precautions should you take when dissassembling a computer?

Below are some of the safety risks and their solutions.

1. Electric shock. This can be minimized by making sure the PC is unplugged before servicing it. It would also be best to unplug it from any modem or network just in case.

2. Getting cut on the case. This can be minimized by using caution and perhaps even a pair of gloves while opening the case. Sometimes you can file down rough edges. The old type cases had a tendency to develop sharp ridges inside the cover if they were opened frequently, and those ridges could be reduced using sandpaper.

3. Getting stabbed by PC parts. If an open PC has exposed hooks or sharp edges, and it starts to fall, grabbing it too hastily could drive a part of the case into your hand and require a hospital trip. Gloves could minimize that, as could making sure the PC is fully on a sturdy surface (not halfway on a chair, for instance). If nothing else, if it starts to fall, don't grab it. More than likely, any damage would cost less to fix than a hospital trip.

4. Problems related to severe frustration. Yes, you may be tempted to smash or throw your PC. However, you have to keep control of your emotions. If you punch your computer or a nearby wall, you could sprain your wrist. If you throw a PC, it could ricochet and/or hit someone. Then you could end up in the hospital or in jail.