Checklist for Automation Disasters


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If the source of the problem continues:
Protect computer hardware and data only if there is no risk to personal safety. For example, cover computers with plastic if there is a leak in the ceiling.

Once the building is declared safe:

  1. Make certain that power is off on all involved computers. Analyze location of damage. Call Automation Librarian (667-4903) or Information Technology Services (737-1482). Be sure to call ITS for any incidents relating to the wiring closets (network rooms, 1st floor, room 129, 3rd floor, room 307).
  2. Stabilize the area to prevent possible further damage than has occurred. For example, move computers to a dry area.
  3. Post out-of-order signs on public terminals if applicable. Notify department contacts that equipment is unavailable and staff should not try to use it.
  4. ITS personnel or Automation Librarian determine if repair can be done in-house or requires a vendor, depending on equipment affected.
  5. Concurrently, continue work on in-house repair if possible.
    1. Floppy disks can be washed in distilled water but may have to be removed from their jackets, washed, dried with lint free towels and put into new covers and copied. Do not touch disk surface with bare hands. Floppy disks that are merely damp can be dried with a hair-dryer set on air only. CD-ROMs can be gently cleaned and dried on paper towels.
    2. Hard Drives: Staff in ITS will remove the hard drives and attempt to recover data on a prioritized basis; they may also decide that this work should be contracted out to a firm specializing in data recovery.
    3. Personal files or software should be backed up consistently; the Automation Librarian cannot take responsibility for such files or for replacing personally purchased programs.
    4. Microforms, Slides and Film: Microforms should be kept wet and not removed from their cartons. They must be professionally washed and dried within hours. Call for professional assistance immediately. Store in their original containers in cold water in plastic bags.
  6. Check maintenance contracts.
  7. Contact appropriate vendors for repair. Data on hard drives will be considered for restoration/recovery on a priority basis.