What Is ESD and Why Does It Matter?

Electrostatic discharge happens when there’s a sudden flow of electricity between two electrically charged objects. In everyday life, it’s a minor inconvenience — but in a controlled environment, ESD can lead to:

  • Damaged electronics in assembly lines or cleanrooms

  • Server outages in data centers

  • Fire risk when flammable materials are present

  • Compromised lab results in healthcare or pharmaceutical research

The cost of a single ESD event can range from a few hundred dollars (for a fried circuit board) to millions of dollars in lost productivity or data loss.

How Flooring Plays a Role in ESD Control

People and equipment generate static as they move around. Without proper grounding, that static builds until it discharges — usually through the path of least resistance (often expensive equipment).

Conductive flooring systems work by:

  • Allowing controlled dissipation of static charge

  • Creating a continuous conductive path to ground

  • Preventing dangerous build-up in sensitive areas

This isn’t just a luxury — it’s an industry requirement for many applications.

ESD Flooring Options: Epoxy vs. Polished Concrete

Both epoxy and polished concrete can be engineered for ESD resistance. Here’s how they compare:

ESD Epoxy Systems

  • Consistent Conductivity: Resinous flooring with conductive fillers and copper grounding strips ensures uniform performance

  • Customizable Colors & Finishes: Ideal for cleanrooms or branding-sensitive spaces

  • Seamless Surface: No grout lines or seams where static can build

  • Durability: Withstands forklifts, carts, and chemical cleaning

ESD-Enhanced Polished Concrete

  • Lower Material Footprint: Uses existing slab, treated with conductive densifiers and sealers

  • Long-Term Performance: Minimal maintenance and highly sustainable

  • Modern Aesthetic: Perfect for tech campuses or lab environments seeking a clean look

  • Lower Lifecycle Costs: Extremely long-lasting with little upkeep

Standards and Compliance

When designing an ESD flooring system, compliance is key.

ANSI/ESD S20.20 is the most widely recognized standard, covering everything from personnel grounding to flooring materials. At Surface Solutions, we help clients select systems that meet:

  • ANSI/ESD standards

  • IEC 61340 requirements (global)

  • Healthcare regulations for sensitive environments

Applications for ESD Flooring

  • Data Centers & Server Rooms: Protect servers and prevent costly downtime

  • Electronics Manufacturing: Avoid damage to circuit boards and components

  • Labs & Cleanrooms: Maintain stable testing environments

  • Operating Rooms: Prevent static that could interfere with sensitive equipment

  • Aerospace & Defense: Protect sensitive avionics and mission-critical hardware

Long-Term Benefits of ESD-Resistant Floors

  • Reduced Equipment Loss: Prevent costly replacements

  • Lower Downtime: Avoid production halts and service interruptions

  • Better Compliance: Meet industry safety requirements

  • Safer Work Environment: Reduce fire and shock risks for staff

  • Stronger ESG Story: Sustainable, compliant facilities attract partners and clients

Surface Solutions’ Approach

We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all. Our team:

  1. Assesses your environment – traffic, equipment, static sources

  2. Recommends the right system – epoxy, polished concrete, or hybrid

  3. Installs with precision – grounding strips, copper tape, and conductive layers

  4. Tests for compliance – ensure your floor performs before handoff

Ready to Ground Your Facility — Safely?

Call 877-CSTM-FLR
Email carolina@cstmflr.comVisit www.cstmflr.com

Don’t wait for static to cause a costly disaster. Get a flooring system that keeps your people, equipment, and data safe.

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