Static Electricity 2000 Edition

6.6.6 Cleaning or Wiping Cloths.
Synthetic fabrics used in
cleaning or wiping cloths can develop sufficient static electric
charge to produce discharges capable of igniting solvent
vapors. Flammable liquids and combustible liquids used at
temperatures above their flash points, where used with syn-
thetic cleaning or wiping cloths, will increase the risk of fire.
Typically, charge generation will increase with the speed and
vigor of the wiping action. The material being cleaned or
wiped, if nonconductive, can also accumulate an incendive
charge.
Cotton or synthetic fabric treated with an antistatic com-
pound should be used if static electric charge generation
needs to be controlled, especially if cleaning or wiping with
flammable solvents. Conductive solvents are recommended.
Test methods for determining the electrostatic-generating
properties of fabrics can be found in NFPA 99, Standard for
Health Care Facilities.

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FLAMMABLE AND COMBUSTIBLE LIQUIDS AND THEIR VAPORS
77
–17
2000 Edition
6.7 Maintenance and Testing.
All provisions for personnel
static electricity control should be maintained and tested to
remain effective. Preventive maintenance procedures and rec-
ommendations can be found in NFPA 99, Standard for Health
Care Facilities, for clothing, footwear, and flooring.
6.8 Discomfort and Injury.
Static shock can result in discom-
fort and, under some circumstances, injury. While the dis-
charge itself is typically not dangerous to humans, it can cause
an involuntary reaction that results in a fall or entanglement
with moving machinery. If charge accumulation cannot be
avoided and no flammable gases or vapors are present, consid-
eration should be given to the various methods by which con-
tact with metal parts can be eliminated. Such methods include
use of nonmetal handrails, insulated doorknobs, and other
nonconductive shields.