Electrostatics
Friction can cause certain materials, especially clothing made from synthetic fibers, to become electrostatically charged. That means that the body is on a different charge level than its surroundings. If the body now makes contact with its surroundings, a sudden discharge can occur. Voltage peaks can be up to 20 00 V and this discharge can damage IC's and other sensitive electronic components. To avoid this, components need to be stored in ESD conform (isolating and conducting) packaging. Persons, which need to handle these components, have to be outfitted with personal protective equipment, as has to be the workplace.