7 Proven Ways to Reduce the Risk of Static Explosions on the Jobsite

Understanding the Danger of Static Explosions in Blasting and Painting

Blasting and painting environments are inherently hazardous, with solvent fumes and certain dust concentrations being highly explosive. In such settings, static electricity becomes more than just a minor nuisance—it’s a potential trigger for catastrophic explosions.

How Does Static Electricity Form on a Jobsite?

Static electricity builds up when high-velocity media interacts with dust on large steel surfaces, creating friction. This friction generates a static charge that, if discharged as a spark, could ignite explosive materials in the environment, posing serious risks to the blaster.

However, by following these crucial safety recommendations, you can significantly reduce the risk of static explosions.

7 Essential Tips to Minimize the Risk of Static Explosions

1. Ensure Each Blaster Uses a Nozzle Washer
   The absence of a properly fitted nozzle washer is the most common cause of static shock. We offer a variety of nozzle washers (gaskets) with different conductivity ratings to suit your specific needs.
2. Use Blast Hoses with High Carbon Content
   Grounding the blast hose is crucial. Hoses with high carbon content ensure complete conductivity both inside and outside, no matter how the hose is laid out on the jobsite.
3. Check for Damage in the Blast Hose
   Quality blast hoses include copper wire for grounding. If this wire is damaged—often by being run over by heavy machinery—the hose’s conductivity and grounding effectiveness are compromised. Learn about blast hose troubleshooting.
4. Opt for an Aluminum Nozzle Holder
   Some blasters experience less static when using aluminum nozzle holders instead of plastic ones.
5. Ground the Operator
   Operators should wear static dissipative boots and use additional grounding methods. Any object on the jobsite can accumulate a charge, leading to static build-up and discharge. Grounding is especially critical for blasters working at heights or in precarious positions.
6. Always Ground Large Equipment with Earthing Stakes
   Blasting systems often sit on mobile trailers or rubber mats, which can lead to static issues. Using earthing stakes is a straightforward solution and should be a standard practice for large equipment.
7. Ground the Blast Pot with an Earthing Stake
   This helps dissipate any static build-up that may travel back from the blast hose and nozzle. In critical environments like tank farms and refineries, grounding should be verified by a qualified electrician, as an earthing stake alone might not suffice, especially in dry ground conditions.

For specific applications, always consult with professional, qualified engineers to ensure safety.