FAQ: Is electrostatic discharge harmful? Why is electrostatic discharge bad?

Electrostatic discharge can give you an annoying or, depending on the voltage, painful static shock. Unless you’re struck by lightning – a grand example of static discharge – ESD will not hurt you. What it can do is damage electronics you use or that people charged with your safety use to protect you. For instance, ESD in a flight tower can cause computers to lose track of planes; in a 9-1-1 call center ESD can cause lost calls or scrambled GPS signals. In fact, ESD can wreak havoc in any work environment where sophisticated electronics are manufactured, handled or used.

Twitter
LinkedIn
Facebook
Reddit
Pinterest
Email

More FAQs

Photo shows an ongoing ESD epoxy flooring installation.

What is ESD flooring?

ESD floors dissipate static safely, protecting electronics from accidental damage due to electrostatic discharge (ESD) events.

Read More
Image shows a sheet of yellow stickers with a caution about electrostatic sensitive devices.

What does ESD mean?

ESD stands for electrostatic discharge. Minute ESD events, too small for humans to perceive, can damage electronic components.

Read More
Photo shows a circuit board with sparks between two components.

How can you prevent ESD?

Preventing ESD requires a well-thought-out ESD prevention program. What is required will be dependent on the application and environment.

Read More
Photo is of panelled wood flooring.

Is wood antistatic?

No, wood is not antistatic. You can learn which materials are antistatic and which are not by looking at our Triboelectric chart.

Read More
Image is an array of gray 3D question marks.

What are ESD guidelines?

Because different applications require different specifications for static control, ESD guidelines, or standards, vary across industries.

Read More
Play Video

StaticWorx high-performance static-control floors protect electronic components, explosives, and high-speed computers from damage caused by static electricity. ESD flooring is part of a system. Choices should always be based on objective, researched evidence. When you partner with us, we look at all possible items that may need to integrate with the floor, and, focusing on your goals and objectives, help you find the right floor for your application.