Which precaution helps prevent static discharge when handling chemicals?

• A. Ground and bond container and receiving equipment
• B. Use metal gloves
• C. Keep food nearby
• D. Store in direct sunlight

Answer: (A)

Static discharge during chemical handling is a real ignition risk, especially with flammable vapors. Grounding and bonding work by creating a safe path for electrical charges: grounding connects the container or equipment to the earth so excess charge can flow away, and bonding ties the source and receiving containers together so they share the same electrical potential. With everything at the same potential, transferring chemicals won’t build up a difference that could discharge as a spark, which is exactly why this precaution best prevents static ignition.

The other options don’t address static control—metal gloves aren’t a recognized method to prevent static discharge and can introduce other hazards, keeping food nearby contaminates the work area, and storing in direct sunlight can increase heat and vapor pressure without reducing static risk.