Rank: Forum user 
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Hi All, Want some advise on the HSE impact of removal of anti-static vinyl flooring from switch gear room. What does NFPA standards require? What kind of flooring is required? What is the issue of retaining vinyl flooring? Any advise is appreciated. Regards, P
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Rank: Super forum user
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More info required. Which NFPA standard - there are lots? What industry? UK based installation? Why the concern with static electricity - electrical signal quality/interruptions to the main power supply causing power trips?
UK EAW Regs apply, which no doubt you know if in the UK. Many plant room/switch room floors are just concrete finished
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Rank: Forum user
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Hi Ian, Thank you for your reply. I am not sure which NFPA standard (could be 850). Just want to know an anti static flooring is required in a electrical switch gear room or normal concrete floor would suffice. Will there be any risk of personnel electrocution during maintenance or switchgear operation?
Regards, P
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Rank: Super forum user
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Not if the electrical switchroom gear has been designed correctly in the first place and relevant personal safety practices are followed by people who need to enter. Refer to EAW regs.
Concrete is non conducting
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Rank: Forum user
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Thank you, Ian. But, do we see static electricity as a significant hazard in switchgear/substation rooms? I am asking this coz, in our company standards specification it is mentioned that "In substation/panel room, type of Vinyl shall be anti-static surface, chemical and slip resistant complying to UL Standard NFPA life safety code 101, class 1" Now the contractor is proposing to deviate from this standard, and proposing concrete slab with hardened finish. If you have any suggestions, please let me know? Regards, P
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Rank: Super forum user 
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If this is in the UK then the NFPA standard is irrelevant to UK legislation.
I personally would be unhappy working on a conductive floor in a switch room.
Anti-static flooring is by its very nature conductive in order that it functions to dissipate the static charge.
Why do you see static electricity a hazard in switch rooms?
What is the environment?
On land? Oil rig at sea? Petrochemical plant? High rise office block?
Where is the build up of static charge going to be?
Concrete in itself is mildly conducting.
The metallic switchgear must be solidly connected to the means of earthing for the installation so that will dissipate the charge from itself inherently.
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