What Does ESD Mean in an Industrial Environment?

ESD stands for Electro Static Discharge, or electrostatic discharge. The phenomenon occurs suddenly when two objects with different electrical charges rub against each other or come into contact. Although they do not usually pose a danger to professionals, the industrial sector is particularly sensitive to ESD, as this type of activity involves additional risks both to workers’ well-being and to the proper operation of machinery.

In order to establish best practices and reduce these risks, there are specific standards designed to ensure worker safety and prevent, for example, potential hazards in the electronic device assembly industry. These are two of the main ones:

• PNE-prEN IEC 61340-5-1:2023, which outlines the general requirements for protecting electronic components against electrostatic phenomena.
• UNE-EN 61340-4-5:2018, which specifies methods for characterising the electrostatic protection provided by footwear.  

What Is ESD and Why Does It Occur in Industry? 

Electrostatic discharges are a way of releasing the electrical charge accumulated in materials and usually appear as a spark. They are commonly generated in industrial environments that lack appropriate protective measures. Let us look at the main causes that trigger them. 

1. Electrostatic induction

It is a phenomenon linked to the proximity of materials with opposing electrostatic charges. When they are near a neutral component, they can cause a charge to build up in it and discharge as ESD. This commonly happens in the presence of charged electrical conductors close to insulating elements, such as plastic containers or pipes. 

2. Friction

It is one of the main causes of electrostatic discharges in industry. It commonly occurs when garments that are not protected against ESD interact, plastic products are handled, or conveyor belts are in motion. 

3. Charged atmospheres

When working in low-humidity spaces or dry environments, materials accumulate more electrostatic charge and the frequency of the phenomenon increases. 

4. Lack of protective equipment

Having PPE that prevents charges from accumulating is essential to prevent discharges, especially when handling electronic devices. Using suitable professional footwear is essential to reduce their occurrence.

How Can You Protect Yourself From ESD in Industry?

In industry, it is important to prevent electrical discharges from directly affecting people, causing the resulting discomfort and even workplace accidents. Along with other measures to prevent them, providing professionals with personal protective equipment and other accessories is the best way to eliminate static electricity in industrial production processes. 

Footwear

It is made from materials that prevent the build-up of electrostatic charge. Its soles conduct electricity to the ground, preventing discharges from affecting the professional wearing it. 

Clothing

The materials used in the different ESD garments worn by industrial professionals have properties that dissipate static electricity in a controlled manner. These materials include fabrics specifically designed to be electrically conductive, carbon fibres, metal threads, and fabrics that retain and absorb moisture from the human body. 

Wrist straps 

These are straps made from a conductive material, such as carbon fabric. They have a cable that connects the wrist strap to a ground connection. In this way, accumulated static electricity flows through the cable and is released into the ground.    

Mats 

They are made from conductive materials that dissipate static electricity and are particularly suitable for use in areas of industrial environments where sensitive electronic components are handled. They are placed on the work surfaces where these components are handled, preventing devices from being damaged by ESD. 

ESD tools 

They are also intended to protect the electronic components used in industrial environments. These tools include screwdrivers, tweezers, and other implements coated with materials that prevent potential discharges. 

Gloves

Made from materials such as latex, which prevent the accumulation of electrostatic charges, they protect workers’ hands. They are particularly used in sectors where sensitive electronic components are handled, such as the aerospace industry, electronics, or the manufacture of medical devices.

ESD is a very common phenomenon that can cause damage to machinery and goods, as well as posing a risk to workers. Providing professionals with protective equipment is a highly effective measure for reducing these risks in industrial environments. At Shoes For Crews, we offer a wide variety of ESD footwear models capable of preventing the negative effects of electrostatic discharges. Contact us, and we will explain which ones best suit your needs.