Introduction to CSS

Welcome to the first unit of introductory module of CSS NC2 Exploring the Electronic Industry. In this
unit, we will be learning about the relevant of Computer System servicing with the needs of today
society. We will also learn which job you can land on after achieving this qualification. And finally, this
unit will discuss the importance Occupational Health and Safety, what are the current OHS Policies we
should follow and the procedures we should be practicing on the industry. Here we will also learn how
to identify the hazards and control risks so that we will be able to avoid accidents in the computer
servicing industry.

At the end of this unit, you should be able to:

 Identify the relevance of CSS in today's society;
 Differentiate the possible careers after achieving the CSS Qualification;
 Enumerate the different Occupational Health and Safety Procedures and Policies;
 Describe the different hazards that you may encounter in the industry; and
 Enumerate the different forms in assessing the quality of materials.

As many of today's basic functions are being simplified by technology, computers have been on the
forefront in developing innovations through its many functions. Many of the things that we thought
were impossible before are now being achieved by computers nowadays. In this digital economy, having
the knowledge and skills in computer servicing is the start and most fundamental of all.

Why is CSS relevant?

In today’s industry, almost every establishment needs the assistance of technology. Even establishments
and businesses are now gearing towards the use of information technology to promote their
services. The demand for people who offer computer servicing and repair continues to increase as
society rapidly changes.

 Computer hardware need maintenance services in order to repair normal wear and tear.
 Network infrastructures used by organizations will need maintenance and monitoring.
 Computer equipment would need occasional repair and maintenance; thus, requiring the
assistance of computer systems service providers.

Commonly, the industry’s main line of business is on selling computer hardware systems and
components, as well as providing repair and installation services.
Thus, if you were to venture in this industry, you must be well informed on basic concepts related to
computer systems servicing.
What jobs can I land on?
Since society is now becoming more technology-driven and technology-dependent, it is no wonder that
more and more establishments are in need of the expertise of computer service providers.
The Computer Systems Servicing National Certificate (NC II) Qualification trains its learners with
competencies that will allow them to diagnose and troubleshoot PC systems and software issues, as well
as restoring its parts to return the device to its normal function.
A person who has achieved the Computer Systems Servicing NC II Qualification is competent to be a:
1. Computer Assembler
2. Computer Service Technician
3. Network Technician
4. Technical Support Staff
5. Computer Maintenance Technician
6. Computer Repairman
What does the Qualification require?
Because technology also changes rapidly, computer technicians must be updated with the current
trends, technology, and developments related to the computer industry. In addition to that, computer
staff may need to work with various people that will require their expertise. Thus, the ability to work in
groups and the ability to translate technical information to non-technical users may be required when
working in this field.
Having a CSS NC II qualification is an entry point for a career in the computer field.
Being a computer technician may require you to travel to see clients or be at an office and workplaces as
a member of the IT support team. As a technician, you must possess the interests and skills that the job
demands.

What knowledge and skills do I need?

As much as possible, you will need some prior knowledge and skills so that you will be able to perform
computer servicing easily.

OHS Policies and Procedures

Occupational Health and Safety or OHS is concerned with health, safety, and welfare issues in the
workplace. Policies and procedures are important in discussing OHS because it aims to make the
workplace safer and better for workers and stakeholders.
It is concerned with many factors such as removal of hazards and reducing accidents in the workplace.
As a future computer technician, it is your responsibility to know these standard protocols especially
since you will be assembling and repairing expensive and sensitive equipment that need care and proper
handling.

Occupational Health and Safety

Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) is a set of policies and procedures that is followed in a workplace
in order to prevent accidents, illnesses, and injuries.
It involves knowing the risks that can be encountered in a workplace and figuring out how it can be
prevented.

Following OHS policies and procedures is important when dealing with electronics since it would protect
not only the personnel dealing with the components, but also the unit itself.
Three steps may be done to facilitate OHS procedures in a CSS work space:
1. Hazard identification
2. Risk assessment
3. Risk control
In addition to that, here are some additional OHS Procedures that must be observed in computer
servicing:
Hazard Identification
Hazards are anything that can hurt a person. Example of hazards that can be encountered when
conducting computer systems servicing are:
 Tangled electrical cords
 Unsecured or unevenly stacked boxes
 Noise
Hazard identification involves observing the workplace’s surroundings to recognize potential risks.

What are common hazards that can be encountered in the electronic industry?

Risk Assessment

Risk Control
Once the hazard has been identified and its risks have been evaluated, it is time to address these issues:
 Ask your supervisor for instruction and training before using or repairing an equipment.
 Do not carry or move heavy objects by yourself.
Applying Quality Standards
Standards are sets of rules that outline specification of dimensions, design of operation, materials, and
performance. Standards provide basis for good quality and protocol.
When it comes to computer systems servicing, standards are important as it serves as comparison for
computer performance. Maintaining quality is important to manage customer satisfaction where the
revenue and profits will depend upon.

Assessing Quality
In computer systems servicing, you will be handling a lot of equipment. You will be purchasing them,
assembling and disassembling, repairing, or even maintaining them!
That is why it is important to assess the quality of the materials you will be receiving especially when
you are purchasing from a supplier.
Here are some standard protocols in checking the materials and goods you will be receiving

Documentation
Here are some samples of log reports and documentation assessed by a quality checker.
Take note however, that not all organizations will make use of the same form.

Inventory Form
Here is an example of an inventory form.
You will be encountering this after disassembling computers. You will be listing down the PC
specifications in this form.
You can write the general description of what the item is under Items while you can write
the specifications or necessary description below Description/Specification. Anything else that you think
are important notes should be written on the Remarks column.