Glossary: Conductive

The term “conductive” refers to the ability of a material to conduct a charge to ground. Any floor with an electrical resistance measuring < 1.0 x 10E9 is capable of conducting static charges away from people and objects to ground.

When differentiating between “conductive” and “static-dissipative” flooring materials, materials with an electrical resistance < 1.0 x 10E6 (1 million ohms) are usually considered conductive. Flooring materials measuring between 1.0 x 10E6 and 1.0 x 10E9 are considered static dissipative.

While ANSI/ESD standards do not specify a minimum electrical resistance, for best practices the industry has historically set a minimum of 2.5 x 10E4.

Electrical resistance below 2.5 x 10E4 is considered a potential shock hazard. Floors reading below 1 x 10E6 are prohibited for use around energized equipment by telecom and Federal Aviation Administration standards: Motorola R56 and FAA 019f.

Label at the top reads "Conductive floors versus static-dissipative floors: Does it matter?" Below is an illustration representing the difference between conductive and dissipative with four funnels. With the one labeled "Too conductive", the bottom of the funnel is the largest allowing a faster and larger flow. With the next one, labeled "Conductive", the bottom of the funnel is larger than the next one (labeled "Dissipative") allowing a fast and large flow from it. Finally, the one labeled "Too dissipative" has a very narrow opening, meaning the flow is slower and much more controlled.
Label at the top reads "Conductive floors versus static-dissipative floors: Does it matter?" Below is an illustration representing the difference between conductive and dissipative with four funnels. With the one labeled "Too conductive", the bottom of the funnel is the largest allowing a faster and larger flow. With the next one, labeled "Conductive", the bottom of the funnel is larger than the next one (labeled "Dissipative") allowing a fast and large flow from it. Finally, the one labeled "Too dissipative" has a very narrow opening, meaning the flow is slower and much more controlled.
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Background graphic is a still from the StaticWorx GroundSafe ESD Flooring – Your Trusted Partner explainer animation. In the foreground at the bottom are two boxes. The top is a bright blue with the StaticWorx logo and "GroundSafe ESD Flooring" underneath in white. The second is a dark blue-gray and includes the text in white: “GroundWorx ESD Flooring – Your Trusted Partner”
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StaticWorx high-performance static-control floors protect electronic components, explosives, and high-speed computers from damage caused by static electricity. ESD flooring is part of a system. Choices should always be based on objective, researched evidence. When you partner with us, we look at all possible items that may need to integrate with the floor, and, focusing on your goals and objectives, help you find the right floor for your application.