Implementing an Automatic Switch Off Policy for the Renal Unit Computers

Key learning point:

A simple code created and introduced in under an hour offers financial, electrical and carbon savings by automatically switching off PCs after a period of inactivity. With no work lost to this automatic switch off, many members remain unaware of the change and those who have responded positively.

Setting/Patient Group: Renal Unit

Issue to be addressed: PCs often remain continuously switched on overnight or during prolonged periods of non-use wasting of electricity but also preventing regular IT updates.

Intervention: A script written by the renal unit IT administrator was pushed out on to all PCs within the renal unit that turns the monitor off after 30 minutes of inactivity, the disks off after an additional 15 minutes of inactivity and finally sends the machine into stand-by mode after a further 15 minutes of inactivity.

Outcome:

Social:

• Response by staff has been positive and many other members seem to be/are unaware.

Environmental:

• 5486 kg CO2 saved annually (estimated)

Economic:

• £724 saved annually (Estimated)