Vision Tech

Home / Clevertouch & interactive screens

Clevertouch & interactive screensEasy2 min read

Health and safety basics for interactive screens

Please note: this is independent guidance. Vision Tech is not affiliated with Clevertouch. Menus and features differ between models and software versions, so check your screen's own manual or on-screen help, and speak to your school IT team or supplier before changing admin-locked settings, updating firmware or doing a factory reset.

Interactive screens are large, heavy and connected to power and data cables. A few sensible habits keep everyone safe, including pupils, who may be curious about wires and buttons.

Cables and trip hazards

  • Keep cables tidy and out of walkways. Use cable covers or clips where leads must cross the floor.
  • Do not let HDMI and USB cables dangle from the screen, as someone could pull the screen or damage the socket.
  • Check plugs, leads and sockets are in good condition. Report any that are frayed, hot, cracked or loose.
  • Do not overload extension leads. Ask IT or the site team if you need more sockets.

Weight and mounting

Interactive screens are heavy. Never unmount, tilt, move or lift one yourself, and do not let pupils lean on it, climb near it or hang things from it. Wall-mounted screens must be installed by trained people. For trolley-mounted screens, follow your school's instructions and ask for help moving them.

Safe use

  1. Keep liquids away from the screen and from cable connections.
  2. Teach pupils to touch the screen gently with a finger or pen.
  3. Do not use sharp or hard objects on the surface.
  4. Make sure vents are not blocked.
  5. Switch off and unplug the screen before any cleaning near connections, unless IT says otherwise.

Eyes and posture

  • Do not make pupils stand too close for long periods.
  • Adjust brightness to suit the room.
  • Take breaks from long periods of screen time.
  • Tall staff may find a low screen uncomfortable, so ask about height-adjustable options.

Reflection and glare

Position the screen so strong light does not shine directly on it. Use blinds where needed.

What to do if something goes wrong

If you see smoke, smell burning, hear popping or notice sparks, switch off at the wall if it is safe to do so, move people away and report it straight away following your school's emergency procedure. Do not use the screen again until it has been checked.

When to get more help

Ask your site team or IT if a screen seems unstable, a cable is damaged, or something has been moved. Report it before anyone is hurt.

Did this help? If you are still stuck, email Vision Tech and tell us what you can see on the screen. Menus and button names can differ slightly between versions and makes. If something does not match, stop and ask rather than guess.

Related guides

Clevertouch & interactive screensEasyEnd-of-term shutdown and summer holiday checklist for interactive screensA little care before the holidays protects the screen, saves energy and means a smooth start in September.Clevertouch & interactive screensEasyPens and erasers not writing on an interactive screenPens that do not write, or a finger that draws when you wanted the pen, are common in busy classrooms.Clevertouch & interactive screensMediumGhost touches and random touches on an interactive screenGhost touches are when the screen behaves as if someone is touching it when nobody is.