Many of us know the feeling of not wanting to touch a car door or metal object just in case we get that dreaded static shock. But while it can be a nuisance, is there any reason for us to worry about it? Are there any situations when static electricity could be more than a simple annoyance?
Because the current is generally pretty low, a static shock in itself is not usually dangerous. But, static electricity may prove to be a hazard under certain conditions and circumstances.
One example of this could be if flammable vapors or dust are present in a building, there is a possibility that static electricity in such a place, could cause them to set alight or even explode.
As unrealistic as this may sound, electronic equipment can actually be affected by static build-up from a person operating the equipment. There has even been a case of a computer’s hard drive being erased because of this.
While static electricity is not a direct result, the fact is if someone quickly recoils from a static shock while they are in the middle of doing some kind of task like carrying hot liquid, etc. a severe injury could happen.
How can you prevent static shocks?
Fabric softener is a very handy thing to have. It can help to reduce static. Why not try diluting a small amount in a spray bottle and giving your carpet a light spritz? This will help to reduce static buildup on your carpet….. It smells nice too.
A humidifier is also a good choice because it helps to moisten the air. Did you know that plants are good natural humidifiers? so maybe you could try placing a few more of them around the home.
Natural fibers are better at preventing static build-up than synthetic ones, so try wearing natural fabrics. You can also try wearing an anti-static wristband.
So to summarize, even though the majority of the time static electricity is just a nuisance, there are certain situations when it could become a hazard. Staying alert when it comes to these conditions is always a good idea.
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