Associate Safety Professional Practice Exam

Which principle is used to control static charges during operations?

1. Insulation

2. Shielding

3. Grounding and bonding

4. Magnetic fields

The correct answer is: Grounding and bonding

The correct principle for controlling static charges during operations is grounding and bonding. Grounding refers to the process of connecting electrical systems to the earth, which provides a path for excess charge to dissipate safely. This helps prevent the buildup of static electricity, which can cause sparks or discharge that may ignite flammable substances or damage sensitive equipment. Bonding works alongside grounding by connecting various conductive elements together to ensure they share the same electrical potential. This minimizes the difference in charge that can lead to static discharges. By effectively using grounding and bonding techniques, facilities can minimize the risks associated with static electricity. Insulation, while important for preventing unintended energy transfer, does not actively control static charges but rather contains electrical energy. Shielding is mainly used to protect sensitive electronic equipment from electromagnetic interference and does not address the issue of static electricity directly. Magnetic fields are associated with the forces exerted by magnets and electrical currents and do not play a significant role in static charge management.