Why should you avoid working inside of a CRT?

One of the common warnings posted on the outside of a cathode ray tube monitor is “No user serviceable parts inside.” Why is it a good idea to avoid poking around on the inside of a CRT?

A) CRT monitors contain dangerous chemicals

B) CRT monitors get very hot

C) CRT monitors maintain high voltages, even when unplugged

D) CRT monitors are very fragile and can easily break

The answer: C) CRT monitors maintain high voltages, even when unplugged

CRT monitors contain a capacitor that maintains very high voltages, even when the monitor is powered off and unplugged. Although many monitors may include bleeders that help dissipate the voltage, it’s still a dangerous situation. Don’t work on the inside of a monitor unless you’re trained at discharging the power hazard!

Want to know more? Watch “Managing Safety Hazards.” As technology professionals, we occasionally have to operate in environments where safety hazards may exist. In this module, we’ll show you how to avoid problems with high voltage computer equipment and environmental hazards, and we’ll discuss the best ways to dispose of hazardous materials. More importantly, we’ll show you how to handle accident situations that might occur when working in our high-tech environments.