This paper presents preliminary results from a power quality audit conducted at a clinical building over the last year. Voltage and current were measured at various laboratories; it was found that the main problems for the equipment installed were voltage sags and surges. The paper examines the causes and effects of power disturbances that affect computer or any other microprocessor-based equipment and analyzes the auto-protection capabilities of modern power supplies. The convenience of "enhanced power supply" or "low-cost customer-side" protection solutions is also discussed. Finally it is addresses the role of the Standards on the protection of electronic equipment and the implications for the final costumer.