Question: Why do I only get a static shock when I touch metal? Answer: Shocks are usually only felt if your body is charged to over about 4000V, and you touch something conductive (like metals or water, or other people). If the wall or door is made of wood, concrete…

Question:  Does the weather affect static electricity? Answer: You’ll often find dry weather will affect static electricity. Shocks are worst under certain weather conditions. Static shocks will increase during the winter when the air outside is cold and dry. They may disappear in warmer damper weather. Static charge build-up is…

  Question:  Are static shocks a health risk? Answer: Static shocks can be a nuisance – but are not generally a health risk. Fortunately there is little risk attached to such electrostatic discharges. In most cases they are just a common nuisance. The biggest risk is that a shock could…

 Question: Why do I get static shocks when I touch the door knob? Answer: Static charges build up on shoes when you walk, especially during winter when there is low humidity. Most modern shoes have highly insulating rubber or plastic soles. As you walk, static charges can build up on…

Q:  What is “ESD”? A: ESD is short Electrostatic Discharge. Electrostatic Discharge, or ESD, is a single-event, rapid transfer of electrostatic charge between two objects, usually resulting when two objects at different potentials come into direct contact with each other.  ESD can also occur when a high electrostatic field develops between two objects in close proximity.  ESD…

Q:  What is the greatest static threat to electronics and other materials? A:  YOU! The human body can generate the biggest charge of anything likely to come near these devices. Charge can often build-up on people and reach levels that give uncomfortable shocks, can damage sensitive electronic parts or give…