Are bonding and grounding the same thing?

Bonding and grounding are two different methods that can be used to control static electricity. Grounding removes static electricity by connecting conductive objects to the earth. Bonding doesn’t remove static electricity as grounding does. Instead, it involves connecting two conductive things so their static charge is equalized. Grounding and bonding prevent a spark from being produced.

Bonding or grounding are the best methods for controlling static electricity. Other common but less effective control methods include humidification, using collectors, and adding additives. Increasing the humidity in your workspace can be used to decrease static electricity. When the air is dry, static electricity can collect more easily on the surface. When the humidity is high, static electricity can still accumulate but dissipates more quickly than when it’s dry.

Static collectors can be installed on moving belts, plastic film, and non-conductive materials, but they still require a ground to the earth to safely dissipate static electricity. Similarly, adding an antistatic additive to flammable liquids will reduce the buildup of static electricity but not eliminate it. Additives increase the liquid’s conductivity, reducing the time it will take for the static charge to leak through the container’s wall to the ground. Antistatic additives are common in fuels due to the presence of flammable vapors.