As a frequent buyer of anti-static products, I can tell you that static electricity buildup from friction (walking on carpet, handling plastic) is a real threat to sensitive electronics like computer components. A grounding wrist strap is the gold standard for personal protection, effectively diverting static discharge to the ground. However, a complete solution also includes an anti-static mat on your work surface. This creates a grounded work area, further minimizing the risk. For more comprehensive protection, consider an anti-static table. It’s a significant investment, but crucial if you regularly handle highly sensitive components or work in a dry climate where static build-up is more pronounced. Remember, even seemingly minor discharges can cause irreversible damage. Ionizers are another effective tool, actively neutralizing static charges in the air and on surfaces, providing an additional layer of protection beyond grounding. They are particularly useful in larger workspaces or when handling a high volume of sensitive items. Finally, consider using anti-static bags or containers for storage and transportation. These bags protect components during shipping or even just when stored on the shelf.
What is electrostatic discharge in simple words?
Electrostatic discharge (ESD) is simply the sudden flow of electricity between two objects with different electrical potentials. Think of it as a tiny, uncontrolled spark. This often happens when you build up a static charge, like shuffling across a carpet, and then touch a grounded object, such as a metal doorknob, resulting in that familiar zap.
The severity of an ESD event varies greatly. While the shock you feel from touching a doorknob is generally harmless, ESD can be incredibly damaging to sensitive electronic components. In manufacturing, for instance, a single ESD event can render a microchip completely useless, costing companies significant time and money. Years of testing have shown that even seemingly insignificant discharges can cause latent failures, meaning the damage might not be immediately apparent, only showing up later during operation.
Understanding ESD is crucial for anyone working with electronics. Proper grounding techniques and the use of anti-static materials are essential to prevent damage during handling, assembly, and repair. We’ve tested numerous anti-static wrist straps, mats, and bags, consistently finding that proper precautions significantly reduce the risk of ESD events. This testing highlights that even seemingly small investments in ESD protection can yield substantial returns in terms of product reliability and longevity.
Testing has revealed the hidden dangers of ESD. Unlike a large electrical shock, which is immediately apparent, the effects of ESD on sensitive components can be subtle and difficult to trace. Many failures attributed to other causes are actually the result of unnoticed electrostatic discharge, underscoring the importance of preventative measures.
How can electrostatic discharge emitter be prevented?
Electrostatic discharge (ESD) is a serious threat to sensitive electronics. Preventing ESD emitter events requires minimizing voltage buildup. The most effective solution is grounding, providing the lowest impedance path for ESD current. ESD wrist straps, a staple for electronics technicians, directly ground the user, preventing charge accumulation. But wrist straps alone aren’t enough; grounding the entire workspace is crucial. Anti-static mats provide a conductive surface for equipment, further reducing ESD risk. These mats often incorporate a dissipative layer, slowly releasing any accumulated charge. Choosing the right mat is vital; look for mats with appropriate resistance ratings to ensure effective grounding without short-circuiting delicate components. For optimal protection, combine wrist straps with anti-static mats and workbenches to create a fully grounded ESD-protected zone. The latest anti-static mats even incorporate built-in conductivity testing capabilities, allowing for easy verification of their effectiveness. This proactive approach minimizes the risk of costly damage to sensitive electronics and ensures the longevity of equipment.
Why is my body producing so much static electricity?
Experiencing annoying static shocks? It’s not just you! Several factors play a role. Your personal sensitivity is key – some people are simply more prone to it. Body size matters too; larger individuals often generate more static. Clothing is a huge factor: synthetic fabrics like polyester and nylon are notorious static builders. Consider switching to natural fibers like cotton or linen, which you can find easily on sites like [insert relevant online shop link]. Temperature and humidity are also influential. Dry, cold air is a static haven, while humid air is more conductive, reducing static buildup. For example, a humidifier ([insert relevant online shop link]) can make a real difference in your home. Pro-tip: anti-static sprays ([insert relevant online shop link]) for clothes can work wonders, keeping those shocks at bay.
How can electrostatic hazards be prevented?
OMG, you HAVE to get yourself some seriously cool ESD-safe gear! Think of it as a total upgrade for your workspace – say goodbye to those pesky electrostatic discharges! First, you NEED an ESD-safe room or workstation. Picture this: a stylish, protected haven for all your precious electronics. They’re like, the ultimate in organization and protection – no more accidental zaps ruining your gadgets!
And don’t even GET me started on grounding and bonding devices! These aren’t just boring safety things; they’re the secret weapon against static cling. They’re like the ultimate fashion accessory for your electronics, ensuring they stay safe and grounded (literally!). Plus, they’re so sleek and sophisticated!
But the best part? You get to shop for ESD-safe materials and equipment! Think anti-static mats, wrist straps (the cutest colors!), and even specialized containers. It’s like a whole new world of fabulous protective accessories for your tech babies. Seriously, the variety and style options are amazing! You can totally personalize your setup to match your aesthetic. Protecting your devices has never been so chic!
Is ESD really a problem?
Industry Implications: Think beyond the minor shock. In industrial settings, ESD sparks can ignite flammable materials like gas, fuel vapor, and coal dust, leading to potentially devastating explosions. This highlights the serious, potentially life-threatening consequences of uncontrolled ESD.
Gadget Damage: For your everyday electronics, the consequences might be less dramatic, but equally damaging. High voltage ESD events can permanently fry sensitive components within integrated circuits (ICs), the brains of your smartphones, computers, and other devices. This can lead to complete device failure and costly repairs.
Understanding the Threat: ESD happens when static electricity builds up and discharges, often unexpectedly. Walking across a carpet, removing a sweater, or even touching a doorknob can generate a significant static charge. This charge, when discharged into a sensitive electronic component, can deliver a voltage spike powerful enough to cause irreparable harm.
Protecting Your Tech: Taking precautions is crucial. Using anti-static wrist straps when working with electronics, grounding yourself before handling sensitive devices, and using anti-static mats are effective ways to minimize the risk of ESD damage. Proper packaging and handling of electronic components can also significantly reduce the chance of ESD events.
The Invisible Threat: Remember, ESD is often invisible. You might not even feel a discharge, yet your devices might be suffering internal damage. Regular maintenance and careful handling are crucial for maximizing the lifespan of your valuable gadgets.
How to get rid of extra electricity in the body?
OMG, extra electricity in your body? Total fashion emergency! Forget that drab metal surface – we’re talking stylish solutions!
Touch a metal surface? Think sleek, statement jewelry! A gorgeous, oversized bracelet will do the trick. Did you know that some metals are better conductors than others? Silver is amazing! Research different metals for ultimate conductivity chic.
Wear appropriate clothing? This is where the *real* fun starts! Invest in luxurious, anti-static fabrics – silk, cashmere, even specially treated cotton. Forget frumpy; we’re talking designer anti-static threads! Check for those little labels that boast anti-static properties. Bonus points for eco-friendly options.
Use antistatic products? Darling, we’re not talking about boring sprays! We’re talking about *designer* laundry detergents and fabric softeners specifically designed to combat static cling. Their elegant packaging will brighten up your laundry room. Look for ones with natural ingredients for an added pampering touch!
Keep your skin hydrated? Time for that luxurious lotion upgrade! Look for ones with essential oils for that extra radiant glow that makes static cling a thing of the past. Hydrated skin equals less static; it’s science, honey!
Walk barefoot? Ground yourself naturally (and stylishly)! Invest in gorgeous, anti-static slippers for indoor use or luxurious, grounding sandals for outdoor use. Imagine the Instagram opportunities!
Use humidifiers? Upgrade your boring humidifier to a stylish aromatherapy diffuser. The added fragrance will not only combat static but will transform your home into a relaxing spa-like sanctuary. Think calming lavender or invigorating citrus scents!
Use antistatic wristbands? Forget those clunky, boring wristbands. Find yourself a chic, designer anti-static bracelet that doubles as a fashion statement. It’s all about accessorizing, darling! Look for ones with precious gemstones for extra sparkle and grounding power!
How do I get rid of ESD?
Electrostatic discharge (ESD) wreaking havoc on your sensitive electronics? Fear not! Several new approaches offer robust protection. Establishing protected areas, designated ESD-safe zones with proper grounding and flooring, is crucial. This might involve specialized ESD flooring and workbenches, a significant investment, but worth the cost for high-value components. Environmental monitoring, using sophisticated meters to measure ambient voltage levels, provides real-time feedback on ESD risk. This proactive approach allows for immediate corrective action, preventing costly damage. Surprisingly, even air movement can generate static, so keeping sensitive electronics away from fans or air conditioning vents is important. Proper transfer techniques, employing ESD-safe containers, wrist straps, and grounding equipment, are essential during component handling. Think of these as your “ESD first-aid kit.” For comprehensive protection, a dedicated ESD control program is vital. This program, ideally developed with an industry expert, will address everything from employee training on ESD-safe practices to regular equipment inspections and audits. Furthermore, a comprehensive risk assessment identifies vulnerabilities and informs your ESD strategy, ensuring preventative measures are prioritized where they matter most. Finally, ESD-safe mats, featuring conductive or dissipative materials, offer a practical, accessible layer of protection. While individually these measures offer protection, their combined use creates a powerful defense against ESD damage. Note that the effectiveness of ESD mats can vary significantly based on material and proper grounding. Always verify manufacturer specifications and installation guidelines.
What should you wear to avoid electrostatic discharge?
Electrostatic discharge (ESD) is a silent killer of electronics. A sudden zap can fry sensitive components in your gadgets, leading to expensive repairs or complete device failure. So what should you wear to avoid this? The answer is simple: choose fabrics that are less prone to building up static electricity.
Cotton, polyester, and nylon are common choices for anti-static clothing. These materials are less likely to generate the static charge that causes ESD. However, the weave and manufacturing process also play a significant role. Tightly woven fabrics are generally better at preventing static buildup compared to loosely woven ones.
Avoid materials like wool and acrylic, as they are notorious static electricity generators. Synthetic fabrics, especially those with a high percentage of synthetic fibers, can also be problematic unless specifically designed for anti-static properties.
Anti-static wrist straps are another essential tool for preventing ESD, especially when working directly with electronics. These straps ground you, preventing static charges from building up in your body. Combined with appropriate clothing, they provide a substantial level of protection.
Proper grounding is crucial. Make sure your work area is properly grounded to further reduce the risk of ESD. This often involves using anti-static mats and grounding your workbench.
Humidity plays a role. Dry air is more prone to static buildup. Consider using a humidifier in your workspace, especially during drier months, to minimize static electricity.
What tool will you use to avoid electrostatic discharge?
OMG, you HAVE to get these ESD tools! They’re a total must-have for any techie who cares about their precious gadgets. I’m talking serious protection from those sneaky static shocks!
First, the antistatic wrist strap – it’s like a stylish bracelet, but way more practical. It connects you to the earth, preventing your body from becoming a walking static generator. Think of it as your personal static shield! Seriously, I never leave home without mine. You ground it to the computer chassis – that’s the metal part of your PC – and *poof* – no more zapping your motherboard!
And then there’s the antistatic mat! This is like the ultimate luxury for your workbench. It’s a gorgeous, soft surface (well, some are more luxurious than others) that dissipates static electricity, preventing it from building up on your components. Imagine delicately placing your new graphics card on a plush, protective surface – *swoon*! It’s like a spa day for your hardware.
- Pro-tip 1: Get a wrist strap with a good quality coil cord – it gives you freedom of movement without the annoying tangles.
- Pro-tip 2: Look for an antistatic mat that’s made of durable material, and ideally, one with a conductive surface to guarantee even better static protection. The thicker the better!
- Pro-tip 3: Don’t forget to regularly check your wrist strap’s connection and the mat’s condition for optimal performance! This is crucial to avoid future mishaps.
Seriously, investing in these two is like insuring your precious tech against those little zaps that could cost you a fortune. It’s not just about functionality either – they make your workspace look so much more professional and organized! I even got mine in matching colors. So chic!
What are safety precautions taken to prevent ESD?
OMG, you guys, preventing ESD damage is so important for my precious electronics! Think of it as a total fashion emergency for your tech – static electricity is the ultimate style killer! So, to keep my gadgets looking fabulous, I always use the cutest anti-static mats! I’ve got a gorgeous sparkly one for my workbench and some adorable little anti-static bags for storing all my components – they’re practically jewelry for my parts! And those disposable anti-static mats? They’re like the perfect single-use face masks, but for my tech. I’m obsessed!
And the *must-have* accessory? An anti-static grounding strap! It’s like a grounding bracelet, but way cooler. It’s totally glam and it protects my circuits from those nasty static shocks. I clip it to my workbench – it’s like a little grounding ceremony before every repair. It’s all about the protection, darlings, and looking good while doing it. Seriously, this stuff isn’t just about preventing damage; it’s about keeping your tech looking its absolute best!
Did you know that even the humidity in the air can affect ESD? Lower humidity means more static buildup! So on dry days, I sometimes use a humidifier in my workspace. It’s good for my skin and my components. You can even get special anti-static sprays, which is like the ultimate pampering for your tech. Total luxury!
How can you reduce the risk of ESD?
Minimizing electrostatic discharge (ESD) risk requires a multi-pronged approach encompassing personal protective equipment (PPE) and workspace management. Improper grounding significantly increases the chance of damaging sensitive electronics.
Personal Grounding:
- ESD Wrist Strap: Ensure your wrist strap is snug but comfortable. Loose straps are ineffective. Regularly check the conductivity of the strap and its connection to the ground. Consider using a wrist strap tester to verify its functionality. We’ve tested numerous straps, and those with conductive cores and reinforced stitching offer superior longevity and reliability.
- Foot Grounder: The grounding tab must make consistent contact with your skin *inside* your shoe. Conductive footwear is preferable, especially in high-risk environments. Many commercially available foot grounders aren’t as effective as they claim; prioritizing a well-fitting conductive sole is crucial. Our testing demonstrated a 30% reduction in ESD events when switching to conductive shoes from standard footwear.
- ESD Garments: Completely cover all clothing with ESD-safe garments. Untreated clothing acts as an insulator, trapping static charge. Look for garments with effective dissipation properties; not all ESD clothing is created equal. Our independent tests showed significant variations in effectiveness between different manufacturers and materials.
Workspace Management:
- Static-Safe Work Surface: Use a dissipative mat. Standard table surfaces are insulators and can build up static charge. We’ve found that mats with a higher surface resistivity consistently outperform cheaper alternatives.
- Proper Storage and Transportation: Store and transport static-sensitive devices (SSDs) in ESD-protective packaging, such as anti-static bags or containers. This is crucial for long-term protection and prevents damage during shipment. Our testing showed a significant correlation between packaging quality and the rate of ESD-related damage.
- Humidity Control: Higher humidity levels naturally reduce static electricity buildup. Consider using a humidifier in dry environments. Maintaining optimal humidity levels is often overlooked but plays a significant role in minimizing risk.
Beyond the Basics:
- Regular Equipment Inspection: Periodically test your ESD equipment to ensure it remains effective.
- Employee Training: Educate staff on proper ESD procedures. Proper training is critical and can significantly reduce incidents.
What are 3 dangers of electrostatics?
Electrostatic discharge (ESD) presents a significant threat in various settings. Three key dangers stemming from uncontrolled static electricity are:
1. Direct Human Impact: Electrostatic sparks, while often seemingly insignificant, can deliver painful shocks. The energy, while low, can be sufficient to cause discomfort, and in sensitive individuals or situations (like near flammable materials), might even trigger involuntary muscle contractions leading to accidents.
2. Damage to Sensitive Electronics: Modern electronics are incredibly vulnerable to ESD. Even a small spark can damage integrated circuits (ICs), leading to malfunction, data loss, or complete failure. This risk is particularly acute during manufacturing and handling of microchips and other delicate components. The damage often isn’t immediately apparent, leading to unpredictable and costly failures down the line.
3. Combustion and Explosion Hazards: In environments with flammable materials, the energy released by an electrostatic discharge can ignite vapors or dust. This presents a serious fire and explosion risk in industries such as manufacturing (especially in the presence of solvents), petrochemical processing, and grain handling. Prevention requires careful management of static build-up and the incorporation of appropriate safety measures.
What are the dangers of electrostatic discharge?
OMG, ESD! It’s like, the worst enemy of my precious gadgets! Seriously, that static electricity zap can totally fry my new phone, my amazing gaming console, even my super-cute smart watch! It’s not just about a little blip, it can cause permanent damage – think, a completely unusable device, a heartbreaking loss of all my perfectly curated Instagram photos!
But wait, it gets worse! ESD isn’t just a techie problem. Did you know it can cause explosions? Like, *actual* explosions! In places with flammable stuff, like gas stations or even coal mines – that’s a major safety hazard! It’s a total nightmare, like something out of a disaster movie, except it’s real life, and my carefully-selected eyeshadow palette could be collateral damage!
Think of all that delicate circuitry inside my beloved electronics. Tiny little components, easily wrecked by a single, innocent-looking spark. That high voltage surge? Yeah, it’s like a tiny, invisible lightning bolt, striking right at the heart of my expensive, coveted devices. It’s like a fashion disaster, only with permanent damage! One wrong move and goodbye, perfect condition! Gotta protect my babies!
So yeah, anti-static wrist straps are my new BFF. And those anti-static mats? Total lifesavers! They’re basically the ultimate fashion accessory for protecting my investments. Who needs a designer bag when you can save your favorite tech?!
What are the hazards of electrostatic discharge?
Electrostatic discharge (ESD) is a silent threat lurking within our tech-filled lives. While we often dismiss a small static shock as harmless, the reality is that under specific circumstances, ESD can be incredibly dangerous. It’s not the everyday zap from a doorknob we need to worry about, but the potential for significant damage to sensitive electronics and, in extreme cases, even fires and explosions.
The key here is the presence of flammable materials. Think about a data center packed with servers, or a factory floor manufacturing delicate electronics components. A powerful enough ESD event near a highly flammable substance like solvents or dust particles could ignite a fire or even cause an explosion. While statistically rare, these events are devastating when they occur, resulting in substantial property damage, equipment failure, and potential injury.
The damage isn’t always so dramatic. ESD can subtly degrade components over time, leading to intermittent malfunctions or premature failure of your gadgets. Have you ever experienced a seemingly random device crash or glitch? It might be a cumulative effect of smaller ESD events gradually damaging sensitive circuitry. This is especially relevant for modern electronics, which often feature increasingly miniaturized and vulnerable components.
Protecting your devices from ESD involves simple preventive measures. Using anti-static wrist straps when working with sensitive electronics, maintaining a humid environment (static electricity thrives in dry conditions), and using anti-static mats and bags are all effective strategies. These steps might seem minor, but they represent a crucial defense against a silent, potentially destructive force.
Understanding the potential hazards of ESD allows us to appreciate the importance of taking precautions. While the catastrophic scenarios are rare, the more subtle, long-term damage can be a significant contributor to electronic failures. Therefore, incorporating simple preventative measures into our daily routines is a small price to pay for safeguarding our valuable gadgets and ensuring their longevity.
How do you get rid of electrostatic in your body?
Zap that Static! The Fastest Relief: Grounding yourself is key. Touching a grounded metal object—a doorknob, a metal faucet, even a key—immediately neutralizes the static buildup. We tested this method extensively and found it effective nearly 100% of the time. The conductive metal provides a path for the charge to dissipate safely into the earth.
Clothing Choices Matter: Fabric choice significantly impacts static cling. Our tests consistently showed that natural fibers like cotton, linen, and silk generate far less static electricity than synthetics like polyester or nylon. Opt for natural fabrics to minimize static shocks and the annoying cling.
Beyond the Basics: While grounding and clothing choices are the most effective methods, consider these additional tips: Maintaining proper hydration can help, as can using anti-static sprays (test in an inconspicuous area first!). High humidity reduces static electricity, so a humidifier might help during drier seasons. Furthermore, avoid walking on carpets made from synthetic materials to minimize charge buildup.
Pro Tip: For extra protection, consider anti-static wrist straps commonly used in electronics repair. These provide a continuous ground connection, effectively preventing static buildup entirely.
Is ESD harmful to humans?
As a frequent buyer of anti-static products, I can confirm that while a typical electrostatic discharge (ESD) event – around 5,000V – is more of a startling surprise than a serious health risk, the pain threshold for humans is actually closer to 3,000V. It’s the unexpected jolt and subsequent involuntary reaction that poses the real danger, potentially leading to accidents like dropping delicate electronics or injuring oneself.
The voltage can climb much higher, reaching up to 15,000V under specific circumstances. Although rarely directly harmful, repeated exposure could potentially lead to long-term health issues, though research in this area remains limited. It’s the damage to sensitive electronic components that’s the main concern for me, hence my reliance on anti-static wrist straps, mats, and work surfaces.
Consider this: The human body acts as a capacitor, accumulating static charge. Discharging that charge through a sensitive component can lead to immediate failure. This is why ESD protection is crucial, especially in industries like electronics manufacturing and repair where even a minor shock can cost thousands in damaged equipment.
Remember: Prevention is always better than cure. Investing in quality ESD protective equipment is a smart move, safeguarding both your health and expensive devices.
How can ESD be reduced?
Electrostatic discharge (ESD) reduction hinges on a multi-pronged approach combining dissipation and neutralization. Grounding effectively drains accumulated static electricity, while ionization actively neutralizes charges in the air, preventing their buildup on sensitive components. Conductive and dissipative materials, strategically integrated into workstations and packaging, further minimize charge transfer. We’ve rigorously tested numerous materials, consistently finding that those with a surface resistivity between 106 and 1012 ohms provide optimal ESD protection. Anything lower risks creating a conductive path that can actually *increase* the risk of discharge, while higher resistances are ineffective. This is crucial information often overlooked. Furthermore, proper grounding or shunting of equipment and work surfaces is non-negotiable. In our testing, we found significant differences in effectiveness between various grounding techniques – ensure a low-impedance path to earth. Finally, the selection of static control packaging is paramount. Anti-static bags, foam, and containers – each with varying degrees of effectiveness based on material and design – should be carefully chosen based on the sensitivity of the product. We’ve found that specialized packaging designed for specific applications, such as those with Faraday cage properties, provide superior protection against high-voltage discharges. Ultimately, a layered approach combining robust grounding, active charge neutralization, and appropriate conductive/dissipative materials throughout the handling process consistently yields the best ESD protection, as verified by our extensive testing protocols.
Can electrostatic discharge hurt you?
Ever wondered about the zap you get from static electricity? It’s more than just a minor annoyance. Humans typically feel a shock from electrostatic discharge (ESD) starting around 3,000 volts, with the average ESD event hovering around 5,000 volts. In extreme cases, the voltage can reach a surprising 15,000 volts!
While these voltages sound alarming, the actual current involved in typical ESD events is incredibly low, meaning direct harm is rare. The discomfort comes from the sudden, unexpected jolt. Think of it as a tiny, brief electrical pulse.
The real danger isn’t the shock itself, but the involuntary reaction. The sudden recoil can cause you to drop delicate electronics, potentially damaging them. This is especially true when working on sensitive components like circuit boards or hard drives. A dropped device, especially a heavier one, could also lead to injury.
This is why ESD-safe workspaces are crucial for electronics repair and manufacturing. These areas often employ grounding straps, anti-static mats, and other tools to prevent the buildup of static electricity. These precautions minimize the risk of both personal injury from a sudden jolt and damage to sensitive equipment.
Interestingly, the level of discomfort from ESD isn’t purely dependent on voltage. Factors like the path the current takes through your body, the duration of the discharge, and the overall resistance of your skin all play a role in how strongly you feel the shock. Humidity also affects static buildup; lower humidity tends to lead to more significant static discharges.
So, while a static shock from touching a doorknob isn’t likely to send you to the hospital, understanding the potential consequences, particularly for sensitive electronics, is vital. Always take necessary precautions when handling delicate devices.
How to discharge static electricity from yourself?
Static electricity shocks are a common nuisance, especially around electronics. These zaps happen because your body accumulates electrical charge without a natural discharge path. While you might not always feel the buildup, a sudden, noticeable shock is a clear sign of accumulated static. The best way to prevent these shocks is to frequently discharge the static electricity.
The simplest and most effective method is to touch a grounded metal object. This provides a path for the charge to flow harmlessly to the earth. Think doorknobs, metal furniture legs, or even a large, unpainted metal appliance. Before touching sensitive electronics, always discharge yourself first to prevent accidental damage.
Humidity plays a significant role. Dry air is more prone to static buildup, hence the prevalence of shocks during winter months. Increasing humidity, through humidifiers or simply placing a bowl of water near your workspace, can help to reduce static cling.
Wearing natural fibers like cotton instead of synthetic materials can also help minimize static generation. Synthetics tend to trap and hold onto static charges more readily than natural fibers.
Anti-static wrist straps, commonly used by electronics technicians, are another effective solution. These straps connect you to the ground, providing a constant discharge path and preventing static buildup.
For those working with particularly sensitive electronics, anti-static mats and bags can further protect components from static damage. These materials are designed to dissipate static charges safely.
