What is Anti-Static Poly?
Anti-static plastic bags and poly film are used to minimize static electricity and damage from electrostatic discharge (ESD). These materials do not generate static, making them the ideal packaging for storing electronic parts and components in environments where ESD and the associated risk of fire are present. In this article, we’ll explain the types and uses of fire retardant plastic and anti-static containment solutions, so you can identify when and in what capacity to rely on anti-static poly.
Types of Anti-Static Poly
Anti-static sheeting comes in various sizes and thicknesses. At Americover, we offer two main types of fire retardant poly:
- Americover 6 mil Fire Retardant Anti-Static
- Tuff Scrim 6 mil Reinforced Fire Retardant Anti-Static Poly
Both of these solutions are waterproof in addition to being fire retardant. The Americover anti-static poly is designed to meet telecommunications industry regulations and can be used for both covering and enclosure. Exceptionally strong and resilient, the Tuff Scrim poly is laminated with two layers of low-density polyethylene (LDPE) and an additional layer of polyester string reinforcement scrim. We also have the custom fabrication capabilities to create custom size anti-static bags.
Anti-Static Poly Uses
Anti-static poly should be used in any setting where sparks could be hazardous, potentially causing a fire or perhaps even an explosion. The most common applications for anti-static plastic include:
- Equipment in electrical rooms
- Storage covers
- Construction site coverings
- Floor covers
- Partitions
- Temporary walls
- Building enclosures
- Scaffold wrapping
- Industrial packaging
- Equipment shipping
How Anti-Static Poly Works
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) defines anti-static material as being “capable of dissipating a static electric charge at an acceptable rate.” This helps to protect electrostatic-sensitive devices by providing adequate electrical conduction so that static electricity does not build. Of course, it’s important to follow other standard fire safety tips, including:
- Minimizing combustible materials
- Using flame retardant materials and sheeting
- Exercising extreme caution when the risk of ignition is present
- Installing heaters in properly ventilated areas at a safe distance from flammable materials
- Promptly replacing any faulty wiring
- Designating a smoking area outside and away from flammable materials
- Disposing of oily rags in a metal container with a self-closing lid
- Training all staff members to access and use a fire extinguisher
NFPA plastic from Americover can be used with our EasyZip HD Zippers to simplify and enhance containment systems. See a demonstration in the video below.
Importance of Using Anti-Static Poly
Most industries have specific requirements for anti-static coverage, whether from the NFPA or the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). In addition to equipment protection, workers and property are also better protected when anti-static sheeting is used, as the overall risk of fire is reduced. Failing to meet NFPA and/or OSHA regulations involving the use of anti-static material is not just grounds for compliance issues, but also poses a real-world hazard for you, your employees, your equipment, and your entire worksite.
To learn more about Americover’s anti-static and fire-retardant poly solutions, email us at sales@americover.com or call 760-747-6095. We can help you understand the differences among various terms – such as anti-static, dissipative, conductive and insulative – while offering solutions to meet your specific needs. You can also browse our containment plastic sheeting and fire retardant plastic sheeting right here on our website.