Portwest Automotive Magazine

The Role of Anti-Static

Selecting Garments Behind the scenes, even the layers you can’t see are hard at work. anti-static base layers, worn underneath, prevent static

from building up directly on the skin. This extra layer of defense is key in high movement environments, ensuring workers stay safe and comfortable throughout the day.

Anti-Static Coatings Anti-static coatings are applied to surfaces to prevent the accumulation of static electricity, which is especially important in environments where frequent movement and friction can generate static charges. By preventing static buildup, these coatings help reduce wear and tear on electronic components, thereby extending their lifespan and reducing maintenance costs. In manufacturing processes, particularly those involving plastics, textiles, and films, static electricity can cause contamination and defects; anti-static coatings ensure higher product quality by minimising these issues.

Anti-Static Foot Protection Anti-static footwear is designed to prevent the build-up of static electricity, reducing the risk of sparks that could lead to fire or explosion. Regulated by the European EN 20345 safety standard, anti-static footwear maintains electrical resistance between 0.1 MegaOhm and 1000 MegaOhm. It works by dissipating static charges that naturally accumulate in the body throughout the day. This type of footwear is ideal for volatile environments, such as those involving solvents or fuels. However, it is not suitable for environments with a high risk of electrical exposure due to its lower resistance to electrical currents, which could increase the risk of electrocution. Common materials like polyurethane and rubber are often used in anti-static footwear for their static dissipative properties.

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