Static electric shock is the result of redistribution of electric charge between dissimilar materials. While usually harmless, static electricity can be painful and irritating. Fortunately, there are several ways to reduce the chances of static electricity, such as changing clothes or adjusting to the environment.
Step
Method 1 of 3: Changing Outfits
Step 1. Change the footwear worn
Static electricity is usually generated when two materials come into contact with each other. Typically, static electricity is generated when footwear rubs against fabrics and other surfaces. Static electric charge usually builds up on humans when walking, but the risk of shock can be reduced by wearing certain types of shoes.
- Rubber is a strong insulator. If you have carpeted floors, or work in a carpeted office, rubber soles will increase the chances of static electricity generation. Wear leather-soled shoes to prevent this.
- Wool is a good conductor and can rub against fabrics to generate static electricity. It's best to wear cotton socks over wool socks.
Step 2. Choose the fabric carefully
The type of clothing worn determines the risk of electric shock. Certain fabrics conduct electricity better than others, and their use should be avoided.
- Typically, wearing multiple layers of clothing increases the chances of an electric shock because the materials in the various electrons interact with each other and generate static electricity.
- Synthetic fabrics such as polyester can conduct electricity well. Limit the use of clothing made of this material to reduce the risk of static electric shock.
- Sweaters and woolen clothing tend to generate more static electricity. Wear cotton clothes if possible.
Step 3. Purchase an anti-static wristband
You can purchase a wristband (rubber worn on the wrist) to reduce the risk of electrostatic shock. If changing clothes doesn't work, try using this wristband.
- The electric shock wristband works using a process called passive ionization. The conducting fibers in the bracelet will conduct electricity out of the fabric and into the wristband so that the voltage in your body is reduced and the risk of static electric shock is reduced.
- The price of this static electricity bracelet is quite affordable, usually under Rp. 100,000.
Method 2 of 3: Preventing Electrostatic Shock at Home
Step 1. Moisturize the house
Electric shocks are common in dry environments. Keep the humidity in your home to prevent the risk of electric shock.
- Ideally, the humidity in your home should be above 30% rh (relative humidity or relative humidity), or relatively humid. You can measure humidity using an online humidity thermometer or purchase one at a hardware store or wholesaler.
- Increasing the humidity of the air to 40-50% rh can help reduce electric shocks. Try to reach this humidity range.
- The price of humidifiers (humidifier) is quite varied. Large humidifiers designed for large rooms are priced above one million rupiah. However, a humidifier for a room with a capacity of one person usually costs Rp. 100,000-Rp. 200,000.
Step 2. Process the home carpet
The risk of static electric shock increases if you use carpet as a floor covering. Several steps can be taken to reduce the carpet's conductivity to static electricity.
- Rub a sheet of fabric softener to prevent the build-up of static electricity, although the effect of this method is not permanent. Repeat scrubbing every week to prevent the build-up of static electricity.
- You can also spread a cotton cloth over areas of the rug that are frequently stepped on, as cotton does not conduct static electricity well and reduces the chances of electrocution.
Step 3. Adjust the mattress bedding
If you experience an electric shock in bed, adjust the bedding so it doesn't happen again.
- Choose mattress pads made of cotton instead of synthetics or wool.
- Try not to use layers of bedding so they don't rub against each other and create a static charge. If your room is warm enough, you should remove the blanket or bed cover (a kind of sheet) from the mattress.
Method 3 of 3: Preventing Electrostatic Shock in Public Tempat
Step 1. Moisturize your skin before going outside
Extremely dry skin, especially on both hands, can increase the risk of electric shock. Don't forget to always moisturize your skin before leaving the house.
- If you're wearing silk stockings or socks, be sure to moisten your feet before getting dressed to go out.
- Always keep a small lotion bottle in your purse or bag in case your skin feels dry at school or work. Do not forget to use lotion at a time when the skin often feels dry.
Step 2. Take care when shopping
Many people experience static electric shocks when shopping. There are several preventative steps that can be taken:
- When pushing the trolley, hold onto something metal, such as a house key, to release the electrical charge that builds up on your body while walking before touching anything with your bare hands.
- Wear leather-soled shoes when shopping as they don't conduct electricity well.
Step 3. Avoid electrostatic shock when getting out of the car
Electric shocks usually collect in the car. Here are some ways to prevent electric shock when getting out of the car.
- Sitting in a car can generate static electricity because your clothes rub against the seat as the car continues to move. Body voltage will increase when you get out of the car.
- The body's electric charge will be released when it hits the car door and causes an electric shock. You can prevent this by holding the metal part of the door when getting out of the car seat. Electricity will flow to the metal so it doesn't cause an electric shock.
- You can also hold the key before touching the car door so that the voltage can be transferred without causing pain.
