Static Electricity in the Propane Industry

Ron J. Zezulka, TB&S Consultants Ed Ferguson, AmeriGas Propane, L.P.

Notice and Disclaimer Concerning Liability

The Propane Education & Research Council (PERC) is a non-profit 501(c) 6 trade organization authorized by the Propane Education and Research Act of 1996 (PERA), Public Law 104-284. PERC was created to enhance consumer and employee safety and training, to provide for research and development of clean and efficient propane utilization equipment, and to inform and educate the public about safety and other issues associated with the use of propane. PERC is governed by a 21-member Board of Directors appointed by the National Propane Gas Association (NPGA) and the Gas Processors Association (GPA). PERC program beneficiaries include propane retail marketers, producers, transporters, and agricultural cooperatives, as well as representatives of allied service and supply industries (industry members). The recommendations, standards, or recommended practices, as reflected in this document, were developed by independent consultants retained by PERC. While PERC administers the process of obtaining the information, it does not independently test or verify the accuracy of the information or methods used to collect the data that support the conclusions or recommendations reflected in this document. PERC, NPGA, GPA, and the industry members disclaim any liability for any personal injury, property damage, business losses, or other damages of any nature whatsoever, whether special, indirect, consequential, or compensatory, directly or indirectly resulting from the publication, use, or reliance on this document, or any information, apparatus, method, process, or similar item disclosed in this document. This disclaimer of liability shall apply even if such loss or damage results, in whole or in part, from any acts or omissions of or by any negligence on the part of PERC, NPGA, GPA, or the industry members or any persons who contributed to the development of the information contained in this document. PERC, NPGA, GPA, and the industry members make no warranty or guarantee as to the accuracy or completeness of any information published in this document. The procedures and information in this document are intended to implement the standards set forth in the documents referenced with capabilities of the personnel and equipment available. It does not create new standards or criteria for compliance. The order of steps in any procedure may or may not be of importance. This material is not sold nor is it a product of any consulting or engineering activity. Users of this document should consult the law of their individual jurisdictions for codes, standards, and legal requirements applicable to them. This document is not intended nor should it be construed to (1) set forth policies or procedures that are the general custom or practice in the propane industry; (2) establish the legal standards of care owed by propane distributors to their customers; or (3) prevent the user from using different methods to implement applicable codes, standards, or legal requirements. By disseminating or publishing this document, PERC is not undertaking to render any professional or other service to or on behalf of any person or entity. PERC, NPGA, GPA, and the industry members are not undertaking to perform any duty owed by any person or entity to any third party. Anyone reading or using this document should rely on his or her own judgment or, as appropriate, seek the advice of a competent professional in determining the exercise of reasonable care in any and all circumstances.

Note: This booklet was developed by TB&S Consultants under contract to the Propane Education & Research Council Docket Number 12457. For further information regarding propane safety and static electricity, visit www.propanesafety.com.

Propane Education & Research Council 1140 Connecticut Ave. NW Suite 1075 Washington, DC 20036 202.452.8975 www.propanecouncil.org

Table of Contents
1. Purpose and Definitions ............................................................................................................................................................... 1 2. Introduction ..............................................................................................................................................................................................2 3. A Lesson Learned .............................................................................................................................................................................3 4. Static Electricity ...................................................................................................................................................................................4 4.1 What Is Static Electricity and Where Does It Come From? ..............................................................4 4.2 How Does Static Electricity Act? ............................................................................................................................5 4.3 Did You Know? ........................................................................................................................................................................6 4.4 What About Relative Humidity? ................................................................................................................................6

5. Steps to Take to Reduce Static Electricity ................................................................................................................... 7 5.1 Identify the Static Discharge Control Areas .................................................................................................. 7 5.2 Floors and Work Surfaces ............................................................................................................................................. 7 5.3 Footwear.......................................................................................................................................................................................8 5.4 Safety Clothing and PPE ................................................................................................................................................8 5.5 Ground the Equipment......................................................................................................................................................8 5.6 Remove Field Sources ......................................................................................................................................................9 5.7 Friction Creates Static Electricity............................................................................................................................9 5.8 Temperature and Relative Humidity ......................................................................................................................9 5.9 Training....................................................................................................................................................................................... 10 5.10 Interviews and Anecdotal Evidence .................................................................................................................. 10 5.11 Limit Access to Static Discharge Control Areas .................................................................................... 10 Static Discharge Prevention Quick Tips .......................................................................................................................11 Glossary...................................................................................................................................................................................................12 References and Acknowledgments ................................................................................................................................14 Field Evaluation Guide: Static Discharge Hazards .............................................................................................15 Static Discharge Control Quiz ..............................................................................................................................................21 DVD ......................................................................................................................................................................Inside Back Cover Static Discharge Control Quiz Answers ................................................................................Inside Back Cover

1. Purpose and Definitions

The purpose of this booklet is to inform propane industry professionals, facility managers, company safety officials, and other responsible employees of lessons learned and information gained from research on the ignition hazards of static electricity and the resulting static discharge in the propane industry. The approach is a practical one, citing science and technology where necessary. The objective is to equip readers with the knowledge and tools to: Evaluate their facility for static electricity and static discharge hazards; Implement remediation or mitigation actions; and Facilitate appropriate training/instruction for all applicable employees. This booklet provides a basic understanding of static electricity, its sources, common exposures, and strategies that can/should be used to reduce the risk of unwanted ignition. The sources and causes of static electricity are varied. This booklet identifies common static threats that may be present at propane handling facilities.

The following training tools are available:

1. An instructional printed manual. 2. A companion DVD to be used as a visual aid.

CommoN TErmS USED iN ThiS BookLET

static electricity an electrical charge on the surface of a material created by an excess or a deficiency of electrons; electricity at rest static discharge the rapid equalization of static electricity; electricity in motion conductive the property of a material that allows for the flow of electrons conductor a material that allows the flow of electrons; common examples include most metals and the human body non-conductive the property of a material that resists the flow of electrons non-conductor a material that resists the flow of electrons; common examples include plastics, vinyls, and dry fabrics
(See Glossary on page 12 for additional terms used in this booklet.)

2. introduction
Static electricity is electricity at rest, or simply not moving. Other than an attraction to other materials, it is relatively harmless. However, if a conductive path is provided for the static electricity, the resulting static discharge or spark may cause the ignition of propane vapor. When propane mixes with air (2.15 to 9.60% by volume), the resulting mixture can be ignited easily by a static discharge. Static discharge is sometimes cited as the possible cause of fires or explosions. Advances in chemistry and technology have brought us new polymers and synthetics that have increased the likely presence and generation of static electricity. For example: Wood and steel are being replaced with polymeric materials such as high-density polyethylene (HDPE) Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and stretch wraps are used to cover and secure loads PVC pipes are replacing metal pipes in low-pressure systems Natural fabrics are being replaced by synthetics Automation has brought faster production speeds The study of static electricity has grown exponen-tially over the past decade. However, there is still a vast misunderstanding about how it works where propane is transferred and handled. This guide offers a practical view of static electricity as an ignition source and provides general suggestions to reduce associated risks. It must be noted, we can never completely eliminate static electricity. However, by understanding what static electricity is, where it comes from, and how it behaves, we can more effectively control it.

Figure 1. Static discharge can cause ignitions.

3. A Lesson Learned
The event:
In July 2006, an employee at a northern California cylinder processing facility reported to his manager what he believed to be a fire during the transfer process. An immediate investigation did not show any signs of ignition or fire.

The investigation and discovery:

The nature of the employee report prompted management to install surveillance cameras in an effort to determine the source. A video camera captured the event (see Figure 2), which was the ignition of the 2 4 cc release of propane at the precise moment the propane/air mixture was perfect for ignition (2.15 to 9.60% by volume). The ignition source was determined to be a static spark given off by the employees clothing while filling the cylinders. Static electricity had been produced and then transferred to the employee by contact with HDPE cylinder storage trays. The employee was wearing footwear and standing on a mat that isolated the employee from ground, making the employee a charged carrier looking for a place to discharge the energy! Later, several employees reported they had been hearing a pop sound, similar to the sound of an old-style flash bulb. Others reported seeing flashes, which were at first thought to be light reflecting from nearby traffic. This had been happening for some time! Note: The size of the fireball was limited to the 24 ccs of propane released, the only available fuel.

Figure 2. Ignition of propane at a northern California cylinder processing facility.

The outcome:
Once we understood what and why this was happening, it was an issue easy to resolve. A few simple process changes were implemented to keep HDPE trays and other HDPE items outside the transfer area. The employees now wear approved anti-static footwear or heel grounders, and the mats have been changed to anti-static conductive types. Employees were educated on static electricity, static discharge, and their role in controlling static electricity.

Copyright AmeriGas Propane, L.P., February 23, 2007. All rights reserved.

This cylinder processing facility was refilling 20-pound cylinders, filling by weight using a low-emission transfer process.1 The low-emission transfer releases between 2 and 4 cubic centimeters (ccs) of propane at the end of each fill cycle as the fill nozzle is released from the cylinder.

observation:
The only time we notice or pay any attention to static sparks is when they are painful or they ignite fuel. Static sparks too small to be seen or felt can ignite propane!

NFPA 58, Establishes a maximum fugitive emissions standard for certain product transfer operations. Low-emission transfer specifications might be employed to comply with environmental regulations or to determine certain minimum distance requirements, 2008 Edition, Section 3.3.37.5 Low-Emission Transfer.

4. Static Electricity
4.1 What is Static Electricity and Where Does it Come From?
We have all seen examples of static electricity. The way our hair flies around when we brush it, the way some garments cling together when they come out of a clothes dryer, or the annoying little zap you feel when you reach for a light switch. Static cling and static sparks are common everyday events. When any two materials touch and separate, one material rips electrons away from the other material creating an imbalance or charge. It happens with all materials. The material that receives the electrons has a negative charge, and the material that gave them has a positive charge. Different combinations of materials will develop different levels of static charge or voltages. Relative humidity, speed of movement, the materials size, and the materials electrical properties are all factors in determining how much static will be generated and how its going to behave. When we walk across a carpet, the soles of our shoes separate from the carpet, there is friction inside our shoes and socks, and our clothes rub against our bodies. These sources of friction generate a static charge. Then, if we reach out to touch a light switch or other conductive material, a spark is emitted. Other examples include fuel flowing at high velocity through a small opening, which can generate enough static electricity in the fuel vapors to ignite them. Also, the friction of a dry wind blowing over cellophane or stretch wrap may energize the wrap. The wrap, in turn, may induce a charge into nearby conductors. A conductor can be any material that an electric current can pass through. Non-conducting materials resist the flow of electric currents.

Figure 3. Paper strips react to an electric field.

Static electricity is simply that static: its electricity thats standing still! A material with either too many or too few electrons in its atomic structure has a static electrical charge. Static electricity can come from a number of sources. Atmospheric lightning is the largest and most violent form. Most of the static electricity we experience in our daily lives is not as dramatic. In fact, we usually dont notice it at all, or if we do, we dont pay it much attention. This is the static electricity created or generated by friction, scientifically called tribogeneration. Walking across a loading dock with rubber-soled boots, removing a wool sweater, and wind blowing over stretch wrap are all examples of friction generating static electricity.

Figure 4. Stretch wrap in the wind may generate and induce static on cylinders.

4.2 how Does Static Electricity Act?

Most of us have felt a static spark when we have reached out to a light switch or the door handle in our car. This is the way static electricity acts with conductors. A common childrens party trick involves rubbing an ordinary balloon on your hair and then having the balloon cling to a wall, sometimes for hours. The static charge on the balloon is attracted to the wall, but the electricity cant flow because the balloon and the wall are non-conductors. The balloon was held to the wall because of its static charge and its attraction to the electrically neutral wall. To lose its static charge, the balloon must attract oppositely charged particles from the air. This process (ionization) takes time, but eventually the charge on the balloon decreases to a point where the balloon falls. We can quickly regenerate the static charge and put it back on the wall. If the air in the room is humid (above 50% relative humidity), rubbing the balloon may not put enough charge on it for it to stick to a wall. This is because humid air has more free charged particles positive and negative that can be attracted to the balloon to neutralize it. Additionally, humid air will moisten surfaces. The moisture is electrically conductive and thus quickly coats both surfaces. When electrical conductors rub together, they do not generate static. When a person walks across a non-conductive floor, his/her body picks up a static charge from the friction of the shoes and clothing layers. The human body is electrically conductive, which means when you reach out to a light switch (also electrically conductive), all that extra electrical energy your body has picked up is free to jump to the light switch or any other conductive object you get close to. Charged conductors such as people can easily throw static sparks. Non-conductors such as most polymeric materials, plastic films, and dry fabrics usually dont throw sparks, unless the voltages are very high or movements like removing a sweater are involved. Even though they dont readily throw sparks, non-conductors can transfer their electrical energy to something or someone which can spark. This charge transfer results from a conductor being very close 2 to the charged non-conductor. The static field from the charged material will force the conductor to become charged if the conductor is briefly grounded. Scientifically, this is known as induction. A typical example could be an employee carrying a charged plastic trash barrel. If the employee is momentarily grounded, his/her body will become statically charged because of the charge on the barrel. After the employee puts the barrel down and if he/ she is not wearing static discharge control footwear or grounded any other way the employee may carry the induced charge into a control area and then throw a spark.

Common materials
Conductors Most metals Human body Wet fabrics Wet concrete Non-Conductors Plastic film High-density plastics Most dry fabrics Dry concrete

Within the effects of the electric field surrounding the charged object.

4.3 Did You know?

Most of us have felt a static spark, perhaps when exiting a car, turning off a light, or even pulling off a sweater. These may be annoying, but are seldom painful. Perhaps that is why some of us dont associate a static spark with significant energy and, specifically, ignition energy. Science has taught us that the smallest static spark an average person can feel, see, or hear is measured at about 3,000 volts. It sounds lethal, but it isnt. The actual static discharge event lasts only 300 billionths of a second. Its over before it can hurt the human body. The flash of light seen with the static spark is actually the superheated air that continues to glow after the electrons have stopped moving.3 Even though the static spark is very fast, it gives off energy in the form of heat and light. At 3,000 volts, a static spark from your fingertip will deliver about .50 millijoules (mJ) of energy. This may not sound like much until we learn that propane mixed with air at 2.15 to 9.60% requires about .25 to .30 mJ of energy for ignition. The smallest static spark we can see or feel has double the energy required to ignite propane! A piece of ordinary plastic the size of a binder or polystyrene coffee cup can generate and transfer more than enough energy to generate an incendiary spark.

4.4 What About relative humidity?

How much static electricity can be generated and how long it lasts are affected by relative humidity (RH). There are more free charged particles in humid air than dry. By supplying charged particles of opposite polarity, humid air will neutralize static charges faster than dry air.

Higher relative humidity reduces static generation and reduces decay time. Effects of moisture on Static Generation (typical values)
Source Walking on a carpet Walking on concrete Rubbing a plastic bag Brushing hair Below 25% rh 30,000 volts 8,000 volts 20,000 volts Dry 25,000 volts Above 50% rh 1,500 volts 500 volts 1,200 volts Wet0 volts

Humid air also reduces the ability to generate static by depositing a microscopic moisture layer on the materials surface. The moisture is conductive, thereby making the surfaces temporarily conductive. Polymeric materials such as HDPEs, PVCs, and plastic films do not absorb moisture and can charge to extreme voltages, even at 100% relative humidity.4 While one side of the plastic may be wet, the inner surface is dry.

Figure 5. Normally innocuous items may generate and retain incendiary levels of static electricity.

Figure 6. Plastic film remains dry on the inner surface, even when the outer surface is wet.

It is the superheated air that ignites propane or other fuels.

NFPA 77, Recommended Practices on Static Electricity, 2007 Edition, Section 7.4.2.3.

5. Steps to Take to reduce Static Electricity

Static electricity is all around us. It is not possible to eliminate it completely, but we can control its generation and provide safe discharge paths. To reduce the risk of ignition, we must first identify where the Static Discharge Control Areas are and where the static electricity may be coming from. A Static Discharge Control Area may be defined as any area where there is a reasonable possibility of the presence of propane vapor.

Figure 7. Some Static Discharge Control Areas are stationary and others are mobile.

5.1 identify the Static Discharge Control Areas

Clearly identifying Static Discharge Control Areas informs visitors and reminds employees of the risk of static discharge. Typical Static Discharge Control Areas may include, but are not limited to: Transfer areas. This includes filling docks, purge, recovery, refurbishing, or any other area where propane may be present. Bulk transfer connections. The areas immediately surrounding domes, hatches, covers, and other transfer hose connections. These areas may become temporary Static Discharge Control Areas at the end of the fuel transfer operation when the connections are decoupled and some vapor is released. Retail delivery to vehicles such as motor homes and catering trucks. Signage or floor markings are common methods of identifying Static Discharge Control Areas. Clearly identifying Static Discharge Control Areas reminds employees of the static discharge hazard and defines where static discharge footwear and other personal protective equipment (PPE) are required. Some propane transfer locations are mobile. Examples include fork lift cylinders, which may be exchanged in the field, and bulk delivery by truck or rail. The Static Discharge Control Areas for mobile units should include the immediate area where there is the likelihood of the presence of propane vapor.

5.2 Floors and Work Surfaces

Floors and working surfaces can play a significant role in the generation and control of static electricity. Conductive and static-safe floors provide a grounding path for static charges developed or carried by personnel (equipped with static discharge footwear). Non-conductive or insulating floors prevent the draining of charges from personnel and materials and will contribute to the generation of charges. Static-safe floors, static-safe floor mats, and dissipative paints should be in the static dissipative range.5 Conductive flooring or mats may be used if no hazardous voltages are present. The resistance of floors and work surfaces may be measured with a Surface Resistivity Meter following the manufacturers directions.

The static dissipative range is between 1 x 10 5 and 1 x 10 11 ohms per square. Conductive is less than 1 x 106. Dissipative is between 1 x 106 and 1 x 1011. Non-conductive is above 1011. Static-safe floor coverings and mats are commercially available.

5.3 Footwear
People generate static charges by movement. They can carry the charge a considerable distance before discharging. Static-safe footwear 6 or temporary heel grounders allow the wearer to discharge safely to a static-safe floor or floor mat before the charge levels become great enough to spark. Other grounding methods are available, including conductive wrist bands with cords. Avoid garments that snap and crackle when put on or removed. Flame-retardant, chemical-retardant, and anti-static garments may be required.

5.5 Ground the Equipment

Any conductor not grounded is said to be floating. All process and handling equipment must be grounded and bonded in accordance with state and federal electrical codes. Ground wires may become loose or disconnected and should be checked periodically by a qualified electrician. Non-electrical process equipment, such as roller systems, isolated scales, and other isolated (non-grounded) metal objects, may become charged and be a spark source. If all sparkproducing materials (conductors) are grounded, they are all at the same voltage potential, and thus no static sparks are possible.

Figure 8. Static Discharge Type 1 safety boot and a disposable heel grounder.

Figure 9. Process equipment such as conveyers and roller systems may develop static if they are not bonded and grounded.

5.4 Safety Clothing and PPE

Clothing has proven to be a source of static electricity and static sparks. Some fabrics and combinations of fabrics generate more static electricity than others. For example, cotton and cotton blends tend to generate less static electricity than most synthetics and polyester materials. For critical applications, specialized static-safe garments and fabric treatments are available. Here are some guidelines: Cotton and cotton blends generate less static than most synthetic materials. 100% nylon, 100% polyester, and wool clothing should be avoided. Garments such as sweaters or coats should never be removed or put on inside a Static Discharge Control Area.

Static Discharge Type I, below 100 Meg ohms and Static Discharge Type II, below 1,000 Meg ohms.

5.6 remove Field Sources

Grounding non-conductors does not drain their static charge. Non-conductive materials such as most polymeric compounds, HDPEs, and plastic films rely on attracting charged particles from the surrounding air to neutralize their charge. Some even generate a charge in the wind faster than they decay into the atmosphere. Remove all the non-conductive materials that are unnecessary to the operation in progress. Store large accumulations of these materials (e.g., HDPE stacking trays, trash barrels, plastic wraps, etc.) at least 25 feet from Static Discharge Control Areas. Under ideal conditions, a piece of plastic the size of a clipboard can transfer ignition energy.7

5.7 Friction Creates Static Electricity

Many static discharge events are generated by processes or activities. Any process that involves movement and the separation of materials may generate static electricity through friction. A typical example may be decoupling a bulk hose at the end of a transfer after walking around or returning from the vehicle cab, or the movement required on a filling dock. Removing plastic sleeves from barbecue cylinders in a refilling operation is an example of a repetitive motion process involving non-conductors.

Figure 12. Any process that requires movement may generate static electricity.

Figure 10. HDPE stacking trays may develop extreme levels of static electricity. Because trays are stacked, air flow cannot neutralize the charge on the trays in the center of the stack.

5.8 Temperature and relative humidity

Temperature and RH affect the level of static electricity generated and the length of time it lasts before decaying. The effect of temperature is clearly evident in colder climates during winter months. The measured RH outdoors may be almost 100%; however, if the air is heated without adding moisture, its ability to hold moisture increases dramatically, and the corresponding measured RH drops. This is why indoor static shocks are more common during cold winter months in northern climates. Polymeric materials, plastic films, and many synthetic materials do not absorb moisture and dry very quickly. Plastic film used to wrap cylinders will remain dry on the inside even when it is raining. Thus, the dry film will generate static even if the outer layer is wet!

Figure 11. Packing materials and wraps should be removed and stored away from Static Discharge Control Areas.

Some polymeric materials may be made anti-static by adding conductive elements in the formulation process or coating with topical, anti-static compounds.

5.9 Training
There is no single tool or material that can control all static electricity. Instead, by understanding what static electricity is and where it comes from, we can apply simple means to reduce and control it. We should examine our processes and equipment to determine if they are part of the problem or part of the solution. Take note of the observations of people who work in Static Discharge Control Areas. They are the ones who witness static discharge events first hand and thus are the first to be aware of potential ignition risks.

5.11 Limit Access to Static Discharge Control Areas 5.10 interviews and Anecdotal Evidence
People working inside Static Discharge Control Areas and other personnel often observe situations and conditions that may indicate the presence of static electricity. They are aware of changing conditions and situations often before management or safety officials. By limiting access to Static Discharge Control Areas to those individuals necessary to conduct normal business activities, we can limit the number of potential charge carriers. Casual observers and retail customers may not be equipped with the appropriate PPE or be aware of static discharge hazards.

Figure 13. Static Discharge Control Areas include areas where hoses and connections are coupled and decoupled and there is the potential for the presence of vapors. It includes railheads, bulk transfers, and cylinder filling areas.

10

STATiC DiSChArGE PrEvENTioN QUiCk TiPS

1. Know the area Be aware of Static Discharge Control Areas; that is, any area where propane vapors may be released or pooled. Some areas may be designated as Static Discharge Control Areas; however, any transfer, storage, or processing location where the odor of propane is present should be considered a Static Discharge Control Area where appropriate static discharge prevention measures should be taken. Remember, the odor of propane is a warning. 2. Ground your personnel Are all personnel in the Static Discharge Control Area properly grounded? People generate static charge by movement, and they can carry the charge a considerable distance before discharging. Static-safe footwear or temporary foot grounders allow the wearer to discharge safely to a static-safe floor or floor mat before the charge levels become great enough to spark. Other grounding methods are available, including conductive wrist bands with cords. 3. Ensure proper attire Cotton and cotton blends will generate less static electricity than most synthetics and polyester materials. (Static-safe garments and fabric treatments are available.) Be aware of any garments or layers of garments that snap and crackle when put on or removed. Never put on or remove garments inside a Static Discharge Control Area. 4. Clean up Remove all plastics, HDPEs, and other synthetic materials from Static Discharge Control Areas. Chargeable materials necessary for operation may be treated with topical anti-static coatings. 5. Follow the code Is your equipment properly grounded? Any electrical equipment inside a Static Discharge Control Area must be installed in accordance with NFPA 58 and state electrical codes and regulations. Metal, non-electrical stationary equipment, such as rollers, should also be grounded. 6. Observe your processes Most static electricity comes from the friction between materials. Processes that involve non-conductive materials will usually generate static electricity. 7. Limit access Limit access to Static Discharge Control Areas to those people necessary to conduct normal business activities. 8. Listen Take note of the observations of people working in Static Discharge Control Areas. They are the ones who witness static discharge events first hand and thus are the first to be aware of a static threat.

11

GLoSSArY
bond electrically connect two or more conductive materials to ensure they are at the same voltage level, not necessarily earth ground; to achieve equal potential conductive the property of a material that allows for the flow of electrons conductor a material that allows the flow of electrons; common examples include most metals and the human body ground the reference point from which voltages are measured; it is the return path for electrical current to earth; a direct physical connection to earth high-density polyethylene (HDPE) dense, economical, hydrocarbon-plastic having good moisture barrier and chemical resistance; commonly used for bags, bottles, and other household products induction the method by which an electrically charged object can create an electrical charge in a second object without physical contact between the two objects insulator see non-conductor ionization the process by which a neutral atom or molecule loses or gains electrons, thereby acquiring a negative or positive net electrical charge; when electrons are gained, it is known as a negative ion; a positive ion has lost electrons joules a unit of heat, energy, or work; there are 4.184 joules in a calorie, and 1,055 joules in a British thermal unit (Btu); a watt is a joule/second millijoules (mJ) 1/1000 joule non-conductive the property of a material that resists the flow of electrons non-conductor a material that resists the flow of electrons; common examples include plastics, vinyls, and dry fabrics polymeric materials popular usage describes materials composed of molecules with large molecular mass typical of polypropylene and common plastics; polymers with covalent chemical bonds polyvinyl chloride (PVC) polyvinyl chloride, a polymer of vinyl chloride used to make a wide range of consumer products such as stretch wrap and low-pressure pipes; commonly known as vinyl PPE personal protective equipment; personal attire, tools, and materials designed to protect the user from the normal hazards associated with the current activity; common examples include static-safe safety boots, face shields, and gloves resistance the quality of a material that resists or impedes the flow of electricity

12

resistivity surface resistivity; the electric resistance of the surface of an insulator, in ohms per square, as measured between the opposite sides of a square on the surface, and whose value in ohms is independent of the size of the square or the thickness of the surface film static discharge the rapid equalization of static electricity; electricity in motion static discharge footwear footwear designed to discharge static electricity through static dissipative materials in the shoe soles; static discharge footwear may be designated as static discharge Type 1 (below 1 x 108) and static discharge Type 2 (below 1 x 109); other common designations include static safe, static dissipative, static control, and ESD (electrostatic discharge) safe static dissipative the property of a material that reduces the speed of static discharge; a material with a surface resistivity between 1 x 105 and 1 x 1011 ohms per square static electricity an electrical charge on the surface of a material created by an excess or a deficiency of electrons; electricity at rest stretch wrap a thin, plastic, stretchable wrapping material applied to the outside of a finished load or pallet to protect against dust and moisture, and to reduce load shifting during transit

tribogeneration the generation of static electricity through the friction of contact and separation of two dissimilar materials volts the unit of electrical pressure required to cause one ampere of current to flow through one ohm of resistance

13

references
NFPA 77, Recommended Practices on Static Electricity, 2007 Edition. NFPA 58, Liquefied Petroleum Gas Code, 2008 Edition. Jonassen, Niels, Electrostatics, Chapman & Hall, 1998. PERC, Dispensing Propane Safely, 2005. S.A.H. Rizvi and P.R. Smy, Characteristics of incendive and non-incendive spark discharges from the surface of a charged insulator, 27, Journal of Electrostatics, 267282, (1992).

Acknowledgments
The authors of this booklet would like to gratefully thank the following people for their valuable assistance, contributions, and comments in the preparation of this document: Mike Walters AmeriGas Propane, L.P. Jerry Lucas Heritage Propane Carlton Revere Revere Gas and Appliances Eric Kuster Fairmount Specialty Eric Leskinen Griffith Energy Phil Applegate Targa Resources Randy Warner Ferrellgas Stuart Flatow PERC Vincent Sibilia PERC

14

Field Evaluation Guide: Static Discharge hazards

Date: Company: instructions

Report #: Location: Operation:

This static discharge field evaluation guide may be used as an initial facility evaluation or as part of regularly scheduled safety or quality management evaluations. If your company has established procedures regarding static discharge control, please comply with those policies. This field evaluation guide is intended to help propane companies identify and reduce the possibility of static discharge in the workplace. Observations are to include all deviations from the recommendations noted in the checklist. Corrective Actions are to include the remedial actions proposed to reduce the possibility of static discharge.

1. Identification and Access to Static Discharge Control Areas (SDCAs)

SDCAs should be identified clearly. Areas where static discharge presents an ignition risk should be marked clearly with signage or borders that limit access and inform visitors and employees of the risk of static discharge. SDCAs may be defined as any area where there is a reasonable possibility of the presence of propane vapor. These areas include fill lines, carousels, recovery areas, bulk transfer stations, and any other areas where propane may be present. Have these areas been identified and marked clearly, limiting access to authorized personnel?

YES Observations:

NO

If NO, please complete the following:

Corrective Action Plan:

15

2. Floors and Work Surfaces

Floors and work surfaces play a significant role in the generation and control of static electricity. Conductive and static-safe floors provide a grounding path for static charges developed by personnel (equipped with static-control footwear) and reduce or eliminate charges developed or carried by personnel. To determine if a floor or work surface is static-safe, the use of a surface-resistivity meter or megohmeter equipped with five-pound weights is required. Prior to testing, the floor should be swept clean but not washed. The weights should be spaced three feet apart. Perform a minimum of five tests per contiguous floor surface, or a minimum of five tests per 5,000 square feet, whichever is greater. Three of the five tests should be conducted in those areas that are subject to wear or that have visible soiling or contamination. When testing floor mats, perform a minimum of one test per 20 square feet. Floor mats should also be tested for their resistance to ground. To test for resistance to ground, place one five-pound weight on the mat and connect the second test lead to a known ground. For surface resistivity and resistance to ground tests, a value below 1E9 (1 x 109 /square) is considered safe. Warning: Never perform these tests in the presence of propane vapors. Static-safe floors, floor mats, and/or dissipative paints should be used in all SDCAs. Are all floors and work surfaces static-safe?

YES Observations:

NO

If NO, please complete the following:

Corrective Action Plan:

16

3. Footwear
All personnel who enter SDCAs should be equipped with static-safe footwear or temporary heel grounders. Entrance to SDCAs should be limited to authorized personnel equipped with the required footwear. Are all personnel who enter SDCAs equipped with static-safe footwear or temporary heel grounders?

YES Observations:

NO

If NO, please complete the following:

Corrective Action Plan:

4. Safety Clothing
Clothing has proven to be a source of static electricity and static sparks. Some fabrics generate more static electricity than others. For critical applications, specialized static-safe clothing and fabric treatments are available. Here are some guidelines: Cotton and cotton blends generate less static than most synthetic blends. 100% nylon, 100% polyester, and wool clothing should be avoided. Garments such as sweaters or coats should never be removed or put on inside SDCAs. Avoid garments that snap or crackle when put on or removed. Flame-retardant, chemical-retardant, and anti-static garments may be required.

Do all personnel who enter SDCAs wear safety clothing that follow these guidelines?

YES Observations:

NO

If NO, please complete the following:

Corrective Action Plan:

17

5. Ground the Equipment

All process and handling equipment must be grounded and bonded in accordance with state and federal electrical codes. Are all process and handling equipment bonded and grounded?

YES Observations:

NO

If NO, please complete the following:

Corrective Action Plan:

6. Field Sources
Remove all plastics and other synthetic materials from the SDCA. Store these materials (stacking trays, trash barrels, plastic wraps, etc.) at least 25 feet away from SDCAs. Are all of these types of materials unnecessary to the operation in progress removed from the area?

YES Observations:

NO

If NO, please complete the following:

Corrective Action Plan:

18

7. Process Observations
All processes that require movement and the separation of materials are capable of generating a static charge. Have processes, process changes, and new tools been evaluated for static generation?

YES Observations:

NO

If NO, please complete the following:

Corrective Action Plan:

8. Training
All employees involved with the transfer of propane should be aware of the hazards of static discharge. Have all employees involved in the transfer of propane been instructed on the hazards of static discharge and appropriate mitigation measures?

YES Observations:

NO

If NO, please complete the following:

Corrective Action Plan:

19

9. Employee Observations
Employees are the eyes and ears of safety. Are employees actively encouraged to share their observations and concerns regarding static discharge safety?

YES Observations:

NO

If NO, please complete the following:

Corrective Action Plan:

Additional Observations:

Signed:

Date:

20

Name:

Date:

Static Discharge Control Quiz

1. Static electricity is electricity at rest, or simply electricity not moving. ___ True ___ False 2. Static discharge is an electrical spark between two objects. ___ True ___ False 3. The human body cannot store electrical energy or throw static sparks. ___ True ___ False 4. People generate static charges by movement. ___ True ___ False 5. A static spark too small to be seen or felt can ignite propane. ___ True ___ False 6. Clothing can generate enough static electricity to cause a spark and ignite propane. ___ True ___ False 7. Clothing made from cotton and cotton blends generate more static electricity than synthetic and nylon clothing. ___ True ___ False 8. Static-safe footwear and temporary heel grounders allow the wearer to drain static charges from his/her body to a static-safe floor. ___ True ___ False continued

21

Static Discharge Control Quiz...continued 9. All personnel who enter Static Discharge Control Areas should be grounded properly with static-safe footwear or temporary heel grounders. ___ True ___ False 10. It is safe to put on or remove clothing inside a Static Discharge Control Area. ___ True ___ False 11. More static electricity is generated on a rainy day than on a dry day. ___ True ___ False 12. Removing plastic sleeves from cylinders can generate static electricity. ___ True ___ False 13. Which places are NOT usually considered Static Discharge Control Areas? ___ Bulk transfer connections ___ Cylinder filling operations ___ Storage and recovery areas ___ General office ___ Any area where there is the likelihood of the presence of propane vapor 14. What materials should be removed from Static Discharge Control Areas to help reduce the threat of static discharge? ___ Plastic stacking trays ___ Trash barrels ___ Plastic wraps ___ All of the above ___ None of the above 15. Who is responsible for static discharge safety? ___ Plant managers ___ Safety managers ___ Bobtail drivers ___ Any employee who is in an area where propane is present All of the above
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1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

True True False True True

6. 7. 8. 9. 10.

True False True True False

11. 12. 13. 14. 15.

False True General office All of the above All of the above\

Static Discharge Control Quiz ANSWEr kEY

Propane Education & research Council 1140 Connecticut Ave. NW, Suite 1075 Washington, DC 20036 (202) 452-8975 www.propanecouncil.org

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