Static Shock Reduction

Static shock in offices: Static discharges and static build up in buildings

Static shocks are generated by particles or materials rubbing together and are worse in non-conductive materials such as plastic sheeting, nylon and other man-made materials.  The symptoms experienced by office staff can cause discomfort and a potential health hazard in buildings where flammable vapours are used.  Static shocks can cause problems and damage sensitive electronic equipment.

Staff can experience greater static discharges in summer when the air is dry and less conductive.  In the workplace environment if humidity increases, the problems with static shocks are fewer as the air is damp and more conductive.  Nylon carpets can cause static shock, as nylon has no cellular structure.