Anti-static flooring is used in instances where a build up of static electricity can become a danger to a workplace. Conductive flooring is used to neutralise this static build up and direct it away from the floor.
There are many reasons why an anti-static flooring system may be needed. When it comes to many manufacturing and industrial processes there can be a build up of static electricity which can lead to what is known as an ESD or ‘electrostatic discharge’ where the electricity moves from one conductive surface to another. This charge is known to cause fires, create heat or light and in some cases small explosions.
This is dependant on the types of material surrounding the static charge, in manufacturing where flammable substances may be used the consequences of this ESD could be a lot worse.
This static electricity can cause a risk to both the workers and the equipment which they use. For the neutralization of static charge in a larger area, such as a factory floor or workshop, antistatic systems may utilize electron emission effects neutralizing any electrically charged object.
In certain industrial environments, the attraction or adhesion of dust may present a problem. Examples of these areas are:
All of these areas may have requirements for anti-static flooring solutions. Furthermore, statically controlled floors will decrease the risk of damage to workers and machinery. As a result, the health and safety of the manufacturing or production facility will be increased.
Consequences of static charges
The main consequences of static charge build-up are the risks surrounding workers and machinery. It is vital that if the statically controlled flooring is needed, it is professionally installed by flooring contractors with experience in that type of flooring system.
One of the less obvious consequences of static charge build-up is the cleaning problems which arise. This is especially prominent where materials, such as powder may adhere to the floor surface. Such situations may be created in instances where resin installed onto old concrete does not take into account the reduction of static controlled properties of that ground floor concrete.
Certain environments may call for the control of electrostatic build up to be achieved by a number of measures which support the use of a static controlled floor finish. This may include the use of wrist straps, specialist footwear, static controlled chairs, tables and work wear.
Step by step process
The process can be complex, therefore we have categorised into the main steps of an anti-static floors installation. You can find out more information regarding the process by contacting Monarch.
You can see from the images the layers in the resin system
In conclusion, there are many prominent reasons in which an anti-static flooring system may be necessary. This may be because of sensitive electrical goods, or when working with volatile substances. Statically controlled floors decrease the risk of damage to workers and machinery.
Another way in which you can decrease static build up and support a finished anti-static flooring system is through static controlled fixtures and fittings. As well as this, specialist footwear on workers may be used.
Monarch are based in Sheffield, Dronfield, South Yorkshire, North Yorkshire, Greater Manchester and Halifax. We install resin flooring throughout the UK and have 30 years experience in our trade. We also offer free technical advice.
Furthermore, if you would like to get in touch with Monarch about anti-static flooring you can use the contact form below. For more ways to get in touch, you can visit our contact page or visit us at our Dronfield office.