Which practice helps reduce static electricity during munitions handling?

• A. Wear polyester clothing and synthetic fibers.
• B. Avoid cotton and cotton blends; use wool instead.
• C. Use cotton or a cotton-synthetic blend and ground frequently.
• D. Ignore grounding; handle without touching grounded surfaces.

Answer: (C)

Static electricity in munitions handling comes from how materials exchange electrons when they rub together and from dry air conditions. The goal is to both minimize charge generation and provide a safe path to discharge any buildup. Cotton and cotton-synthetic blends tend to generate less static than pure synthetic fabrics like polyester, which can accumulate a higher triboelectric charge. Cotton fibers are more absorbent and stay closer to humidity levels in typical handling environments, reducing the amount of static generated during movement and contact. The cotton-synthetic blend holds the practical advantages of durability and comfort while still keeping static levels lower than all-synthetic fabrics.

Grounding provides a direct, low-resistance path for any accumulated charge to flow to earth, so frequent grounding prevents charge from reaching dangerous levels. If you rely on fabric choice alone without establishing a reliable grounding path, static can still build up and discharge unpredictably, which is especially hazardous around energetic materials.

That’s why wearing cotton or a cotton-synthetic blend and grounding frequently is the best practice: it combines a low static-generation fabric with a reliable discharge route, reducing the risk of an static discharge igniting materials.