UNDERSTANDING STATIC ELECTRICITY HAZARDS IN THE WORKPLACE

When it comes to workplace safety, most organisations prioritise protection from obvious risks like heavy machinery or chemical spills. But protection from dangers of static electricity is the unseen spark that can pose a significant threat in industrial environments. That’s why comprehensive electrostatic control measures — including proper hand protection, grounding systems, anti-static clothing, and engineering controls — are essential to keeping workers safe.

What is static electricity in the workplace?

Static electricity occurs when two materials rub together, causing an imbalance of electric charges. In environments such as electronics manufacturing, chemical processing, or cleanrooms, this buildup can trigger electrostatic discharge (ESD), resulting in fires, explosions, or damage to sensitive equipment.

There is a risk of explosion due to static electricity during common activities such as handling bulk materials, transferring chemicals, or operating equipment like conveyors. This risk increases when protective gloves or clothing are made from materials which can insulate from electrostatic charges instead of releasing them — raising the likelihood of dangerous discharges. Watch the video to learn more.

Common dangers of static electricity in industrial settings

Static electricity poses a potential hazard across a variety of industrial sectors. Some of the most exposed industries include:

• Pharmaceutical industry
• Food industry
• Petrochemical industry
• Waste treatment companies
• Electronics industry
• Automotive sector

Risks associated with static electricity
Explosions and damage to electronic components.

Risks in ATEX zones
ATEX environments (zones with explosive atmospheres) are particularly vulnerable to ignition sources caused by static electricity. In these areas, a single static discharge can trigger an explosion — posing significant danger to both workers and facilities.

Risks to sensitive electronic components
Electrostatic discharges (ESD) can cause irreversible damage to delicate electronic components. This is especially critical in electronics manufacturing, semiconductor production, and the assembly of integrated circuits, where even a minor discharge can destroy sensitive and costly parts.

Real-world case: Aluminium powder dust explosion

At an explosives manufacturing site in Western Australia, a static electric discharge ignited a dust explosion during the pneumatic transfer of aluminium powder. The vacuum transfer system, constructed from PVC pipe and fittings, was not adequately bonded or earthed. The flexible bulk container holding the powder was also not grounded.

The system had operated for some time without issue before a flash-back explosion occurred, resulting in fire and damage to the vacuum chamber. While there were no injuries, the investigation confirmed that static build-up was the ignition source. The case highlights the serious risks of combustible dust environments when equipment is not properly bonded or grounded and safe handling procedures are lacking.

Static electricity protection: Best practices for industrial safety

Recognising the dangers of static electricity is only the first step. Implementing preventive measures is crucial to protecting workers and assets.

Preventing static shock at work

To reduce hazards of static charge, the following preventive actions should be considered:

• Ground all workers, equipment, and PPE.
• Use grounding wrist straps and conductive footwear.
• Eliminate insulating materials where possible.
• Humidity Control: Maintain adequate humidity levels.
• Use of Antistatic Materials: Replace insulating surfaces or packaging with dissipative alternatives.
• Proper Flooring Systems: Install safe flooring that dissipates charges through footwear to ground.
• Ventilation and Dust Control: In combustible dust environments, ensure proper dust collection and ventilation to prevent accumulation.
• Routine Inspection and Maintenance: Regularly check grounding points, cables, and ESD controls for wear or failure.
• Train workers on static electricity risks and proper PPE selection.

ESD vs. antistatic: Understanding the differences

The terms antistatic and electrostatic dissipative are often used interchangeably, which creates confusion and uncertainty regarding their exact meaning. This can make it difficult to select the right glove, especially for use in potentially explosive atmospheres (ATEX zones).

To clarify these concepts, we refer to the definition from the technical report, named: “Selection, use, care and maintenance of personal protective equipment for preventing electrostatic risks in hazardous areas (explosion risks).” (CEN-CENELEC JWG ESR N 97)

Electrostatic dissipative (ESD)
Describing materials or objects that dissipate charge to an acceptable level within an acceptable period of time.

Antistatic
Property of a material or object that reduces its tendency to acquire charge by contact or rubbing, or that reduces the time taken for charge to dissipate to an acceptable level.

Common usage in glove terminology

In practice, it is generally commercially accepted to:

• Use the term ESD glove for gloves that comply with the EN 16350 standard, which specifically applies to gloves intended for use in explosive atmospheres (ATEX). The EN16350 standard defines a maximum allowable vertical resistance of ≤ 1.0 × 10⁸ ohms (10⁸ Ω).
• Use the term antistatic glove for gloves made from materials that meet one of the criteria defined in the EN 1149-5 standard, although this standard is originally intended for protective clothing (e.g. suits).

Ansell offers a range of protective gloves solutions, including ESD designed for demanding ATEX zones and industrial workplaces. For operations dealing with both chemical and electrostatic hazards, PPE for chemical and static hazards is essential.

Building a safety future with proper PPE

Understanding workplace hazards is the first step toward creating a safer environment. Selecting the appropriate PPE gloves is crucial to protect your team from the risks of static electricity–related explosions.