Electrostatic discharge (ESD) can pose a serious risk in environments with a lot of electrical equipment and is of particular concern to electronics manufacturing businesses. ESD not only exposes workers to static shock but it can also permanently damage sensitive electronical components. Creating an ESD protected area (EPA) mitigates these hazards by preventing the build-up of static charge through the grounding of both workers and conductive materials. To create a complete EPA, combine static-dissipative mats with grounding wristbands or heel straps. For maximum performance your mat should be used with a grounding wire and bonding plug.