Static electricity affects everyone’s lives and equipment, either directly or indirectly, and can cause serious harm if neglected. While various methods have been used to prevent the negative effects of static electricity, as technology advances, science laboratories have shifted to anti-static lab furniture such as electrostatic discharge (ESD) chairs.
This equipment not only provides static shielding for the body but also reduces the electrostatic hazards of the processes.
Below, we’ll examine what an ESD chair is, the various ways they can improve your science lab, and the qualities to look for in ESD chairs to help you make the best decision.
Continue reading to learn more about the many reasons why you should invest in ESD chairs and how a trusted lab furniture supplier can help you find high-quality science lab equipment to keep your laboratories up to date.
What Is an ESD Chair?
ESD occurs when an object that does not conduct electricity accumulates static electricity on its surface. When one object is in contact with another non-conducting object for an extended period of time, static electricity accumulates.
You bring the static electricity with you when you get out of your chair. Anything you touch after that has the potential to be shocked, and this can result in serious damage.
Luckily, ESD chairs are an excellent first line of defense against static electric discharges. ESD chairs are intended to reduce static electricity buildup and to serve as a ground for the static discharge of any buildups that do occur.
They also have static dissipative fabrics, conductive casters, and drag chains to reduce static electricity buildup and provide a discharge area if it does occur.
Key Features of ESD Chairs
- Conductive backrests that feature seat height adjustment option
- Heavy-duty, robust metal frames
- Pneumatic height adjustments
- Ergonomic seating
10 Benefits of ESD Chairs
While there are numerous actions that can cause ESD, simply sitting and moving in our chairs can generate a significant static charge, causing damage in the workplace. Fortunately, ESD chairs are one of the most effective industries for dealing with electrostatic discharge in the workplace.
Here are some of the benefits that ESD chairs provide:
- Reduce musculoskeletal disorders, cumulative trauma disorders, and repetitive strain injuries.
- Increase employee or student productivity by making people feel more comfortable and reducing fatigue.
- Easy to clean due to special manufacturing materials that resist stains, grease, water, chemicals, and even punctures.
- Exceed or meet the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standards.
- Specifically designed to keep you safe from electrostatic discharge.
- Combine non-conductive materials, static-free fabric, and static-free casters in an attractive and comfortable chair.
- Maximum ergonomic support for sitting or standing lab workers.
- Reduced environmental pollutants.
- Ensures product reliability and worker productivity.
- Protect fragile, sensitive floor grounds with special hard plastic casters or soft wheel casters, depending on specific requirements.
4 Qualities to Look for in an ESD Chair
So, how do you pick the right ESD chair? Here are four qualities to look for and consider when starting your search:
1. Third-Party Verification
There are numerous ESD chairs on the market that claim to be ESD safe. Request third-party certification to ensure that the chair has been tested and will perform as expected.
Every component, from the chair seat and backrest to the ESD chair casters and other plastic or metal parts, should discharge static electricity in accordance with recognized standards.
2. Seating Ergonomics
While ESD protection is your primary goal, keep in mind that the operator will be sitting in the chair for many hours at a time. As a result, comfort and ergonomic design are important.
Ergonomic chairs are intended to promote good posture, increase productivity, and reduce the risk of workers developing injuries or problems as a result of repetitive tasks or long periods of sitting.
3. Upholstery Choices
ESD chairs are available in a variety of static dissipative vinyl upholstery coverings, so you have many options when it comes to selecting a seat covering for the seat and back of the chair, and you must choose wisely.
Custom fabrics or vinyl are commonly used for these coverings, but some workplaces may require Polyurethane or Polypropylene due to their resistance to water, chemicals, and various coatings.
4. Reputable Manufacturer
When purchasing ESD cleanroom chairs, it is prudent to investigate the manufacturer’s credentials.
What is their track record and reputation? Do they have a good track record? Is their service network adequate? Will they make products to your specifications? Do they have knowledge of ESD and ergonomics?
It is always advantageous to work with a reliable supplier.
Get Help from a Trusted Specialist at LabTech Supply Company
In today’s laboratory workspaces, static electricity can be a significant and even dangerous issue. The lab furniture you choose can play a significant role in reducing these risks. Fortunately, ESD chairs are an essential piece of laboratory equipment and a wise investment in environments where static sensitive electronics and devices are used.
At LabTech Supply Company, we’re proud to be a leading manufacturer of static control chairs to bring you a wide range of anti-static laboratory equipment.
For over 30 years, we have provided our customers with a wide offering of lab furniture and ESD chairs for all types of laboratory work environments. We want to help you create the safest and most efficient laboratory possible by offering high-quality laboratory furniture at an affordable price.
For more information on our static control chair, esd chair price, and wide range of high-quality laboratory equipment, you may speak with one of our lab equipment experts about your requirements and discover how our high-quality, professional-grade lab equipment can improve your workspace.
Our lab furniture specialists work hard to keep your lab up to date, and we can’t wait to learn how we can help you. Email us at sales@labtechsupplyco.com or contact us at 800-476-5228 at LabTech Supply Company today!
