Portwest Anti-Static ESD Long Sleeve T-Shirt - Hamilton Blue

What is EN61340-5-1?

Static charge can build up on the body for a number of reasons including personal attire, atmospheric humidity and the way in which a person walks and moves. A build up of electrostatic discharge (ESD) can damage sensitive electronic components or create fire risks when handling solvents and other flammable materials.

ESDS

In order for electrostatic sensitive devices (ESDS) to be handled with minimal risk of damage there are specific technical requirements for the design, use and control of an electrostatic protected area (EPA). This includes the use of ESD control items such as garments or footwear.

How is it tested?

Compliant garments must be clearly marked and must completely cover all clothing in the arms and torso region. The point to point resistance over the outer surface must be less than 1012 Ω.

Point to point resistance

The point to point resistance is a measure of the conductivity of the material between two points. Conductive fibres in garments work by preventing the static charge build up by allowing it to dissipate through the conductive fibres and go to earth.

Lower is better

The lower the resistance the higher the conductivity and the lower the risk of electrostatic discharge.

This European standard is part of a series of standards for test methods and requirements for electrostatic properties of protective clothing.

The standard specifies material and design requirements for garments used as part of a total earthed system, to avoid incendiary discharges.

The requirements may not be sufficient in oxygen enriched flammable atmospheres.

This European Standard is not applicable for specifying protection against main voltages.

EN 1149-1:

Test method for measurement of surface resistivity. Surface resistance measures the conductivity between two points on the surface of a fabric. The lower the resistance the higher the conductivity, resulting in charge going to earth.

EN 1149-2:

Test method for measurement of the electrical resistance through a material (vertical resistance). This is the level of conductivity when measured through the depth of a fabric.

EN 1149-3:

Test methods for measurement of charge decay. Charge decay measures how long it takes for an electric current to dissipate. The quicker it dissipates the higher the anti-static properties of the garment.

Please note the EN 1149-4 Garment Test is under development.

EN 1149-5:

EN 1149-5 specifies the performance and design requirements to avoid static discharge for all electrostatic dissipative protective clothing as part of an entire earthed system, shoes, clothing & floor. The material meets the requirements.