How Static Electricity Affects Business
Have you ever rubbed a balloon on your hair, then held it against a wall? Chances are your hair stood on end while the balloon clung to the surface like it was magnetized. This is a simple example of static electricity in action – an invisible force that can be both fascinating and frustrating.
While it may seem like just harmless science, static electricity is no joke when it comes to business environments. In fact, it can lead to catastrophic disasters. This brief article brought to you by Mr. Electric will touch on some of these shocking risks.
What Is Static Electricity?
Let’s make sure we’re on the same page. Static electricity is the result of an imbalance of electric charges within or on the surface of a material. When two objects rub against each other, electrons can move from one object to the other to leave one object negatively charged and the other positively charged.
In the balloon example, the balloon becomes negatively charged as it steals electrons from your now positively-charged hair. When two objects with opposite charges come near each other, they attract. That’s why your hair stands up and the balloon sticks to the wall.
Static Electricity in the Workplace
In everyday office environments, static electricity might cause a few harmless shocks when you touch a doorknob or shake hands with a coworker. But it doesn’t stop there.
Our modern workplaces often contain electronics and delicate equipment which can be vulnerable to static discharge. This is especially true in industries that rely on computer components, medical devices, or precision machinery. Believe it or not, a tiny static discharge could be enough to fry a chip or damage delicate parts of a device.
The Hidden Costs of Static Electricity
Beyond the obvious damage to equipment, there are indirect costs such as production delays, maintenance expenses, and the need for specialized training for employees.
In fields like pharmaceuticals and healthcare, static electricity can impact the integrity of product packaging or sensitive equipment. Then there’s the customer experience. Imagine being in a high-end retail store and getting shocked when you reach for a sweater or grab a credit card machine.
The High-Stakes Case in Gas Stations
The stakes are much higher in more hazardous environments like gas stations. You might not think much of the static electricity you generate as you slide out of the car or touch the fuel nozzle, but the potential for a spark exists. This tiny spark could ignite fuel vapors and cause a fire or explosion!
Managing Static Electricity Risks in Business
Luckily, there are steps to control static electricity risks. For electronics-heavy industries, investing in anti-static materials, grounding equipment, and proper training can mitigate the risk. In hazardous environments like gas stations, encouraging proper fueling practices and investing in grounding systems can greatly reduce the chance of an accident.
Have an Electrician Investigate
A certified electrician is a master of the element, and the trained professionals at Mr. Electric are happy to evaluate your business environment for risks. Call or message us today to get started with a consultation.
Mr. Electric is an established, licensed, and insured business with decades of experience delivering quality electrical service and repair. Whether you need an inspection, repair, replacement, or installation, the uniformed electricians at Mr. Electric are here to help.
