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Static Electricity - The Hidden Danger in Hazardous Areas

Publisher: Newson Gale, Inc.

Format: PDF
Date: 2009-02-10

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Newson Gale, Inc.
White Papers

Overview:
In light of the fact that many plant fires and personnel injuries are directly linked to a static spark igniting a vapor, gaseous or dust atmosphere, this paper presents guidelines and safety measures for controlling static electricity in hazardous work environments. The phenomenon of static electricity is defined, and the limitations of grounding and bonding techniques in hazardous area applications that use non-conductive materials such as drums, containers are reviewed. Various considerations for dealing with static electricity in bulk containers and IBCs made of non-static dissipating materials are detailed, along with the grounding issues to be considered while using flexible IBCs, which incorporate conductive strips within the polypropylene weave and a labeled grounding point. The paper concludes by emphasizing on the need for using conductive and static dissipative materials in hazardous areas or to transport flammable or combustible materials.

TABLE OF CONTENTS
1.	Static Electricity	1
2.	Grounding and Bonding	1
3.	Bulk Containers	2
3.1.	Rigid IBCs	2
3.2.	Flexible IBCs	3
4.	Conclusion	3
5.	Reference Sources	4
6.	Figures
6.1.	Examples of Possible Ignition Sources	2
6.2.	Drum Grounding during Flammable Product Transfer	3
6.3.	Static Ground Indication with IBC and FIBC	4