Posted By holmezy
HR17,

antistatic shoes are those which do not allow a build up of static electricity which is sufficient to generate a spark, which could then cause an explosion or fire.
As we, as humans, move around, the friction that is generated by the movement between us and clothing causes static to build up. Luckily for us, we tend to touch "earthed" objects regularly so the static is dissipated. Rubber soled shoes effectively act as an insulator so doesnt allow discharge. When travelling in a car, you may experience a small shock when you get out, thats static finding away to earth and it spawned a craze of anti staic strips which were attached to bumpers. Hospitals used to be reknowned for explosions caused by static build up in rubber wheeled trollies but then they started attaching chains which brushed the floor ro dissipate the charge. Remember the old trick with the ballon, rubbing it against clothes and making it stick, or making peoples hair stand up?

Try looking at EN ISO 20345 or 20356 for testing methods and approvals. Or ring a safety shoe supplier who should be able to find the info for you.

Holmezy