Hazardous zones and grounding

[sgunsel]

As usual, it depends. If you are in a Class I area, static eletcricity can be a very real ignition hazard. Take a look at NFPA 77, Recommended Practice on Static Electricity. To prevent static electricity charge accumulation and subsequent discharge (sparks), ALL conductive objects, including personnel, must be grounded. Grounding for static dissipation requires a maximum resistance of one megohm(!). In special circumstances, such as operating rooms, minimum and maximum flooring surface resistances are specified. Explosives handling areas may also have specific requirements. Any fixed object that is conductive needs to be grounded. As the EC, you won't normally deal with personnel or portable apparatus, unless you are working in the classified area, but you may be required to provide grounding attachment points. That may or may not be part of your responsibility.