Before an explosion can occur, three things must come together: An ignition source, a flammable substance and oxygen. Especially in the area where flammable liquids are handled, or in filling plants for combustible dusts, it is often sufficient to apply adequate measures of Explosion Protection, whereby a particular priority is on the “Avoidance of effective ignition sources”.

Electrostatic charges occur on surfaces due to friction of chargeable materials. This charge remains on the material until it either slowly degrades or unloads by arcing to a conductor. The sparks which develop from this discharge can cause an ignition in the event of an explosive atmosphere. To prevent this electrostatic charging, and provide a safe derivation of charges, the use of suitable grounding systems is required such as, for example, grounding clamps on barrels, equipment and pipes. Grounding clamps should be used for mobile objects especially because they are easy to put on and take off as needed.