Quote from Bolimomo:
"... Be honest I wouldn't even open a computer chassis while the system is up and running. I always unplug the main power cord before doing so. Just a matter of taking precautions.
I think they are more fault tolerant than that. I run 3 of mine with the side panel off all of the time for quicker access and better cooling.... in a carpeted room. However when changing CPU or replacing thermal grease, I wear a static wrist strap.
Isn't it a better idea to leave the power cord plugged in as it's a path to ground for static discharge, if any? Good idea to touch the back of the computer on some non-painted part to discharge any static before reaching inside, however.