Tags: electrostatic

• HSE Risk Management Services Pvt Ltd
• 06 Aug 24
• Methodology

METHODOLOGY FOR ELECTROSTATIC HAZARD RISK ASSESSMENT MULTI PRODUCT FACILITY

Electrostatic discharge (ESD) is a critical ignition source for combustible substances and flammable liquids. Effective safety measures require a thorough understanding and assessment of electrostatic charge. Preventing static charge separation is challenging because its origin is often at the interface of materials. Static electric charge builds up when the rate of charge separation exceeds the rate of charge recombination. While charge separation alone may not pose a fire or explosion hazard, the risk arises during discharge or sudden recombination of these charges, potentially causing ignition. In static electric phenomena, charges are typically separated by resistive barriers such as air gaps or insulation between conductors, or by the insulating properties of the materials being handled or processed. Sparks commonly occur between conductors and insulators. The human body, a proficient electrical conductor, has been involved in many static electric discharge incidents. Sparks from ungrounded charged conductors, including the human body, are primary causes of fires and explosions ignited by static electricity. Conducting an on-site evaluation or survey of the process is crucial to identify any ungrounded conductive objects, including personnel, and materials that could act as electrical insulators, interfering with proper bonding and grounding. This survey should identify locations that might pose a static electricity hazard, even if charge accumulation is not evident at the time of evaluation.