Are there risks associated with grounding practices?
Written by
Gina Mason
Reviewed by
Prof. Benjamin Murphy, Ph.D.Grounding practices carry specific risks that require diligence. There are electrical hazards for indoor mats if no properly grounded outlet is available. After prolonged contact with conductive material, skin irritation could develop. Medical devices, such as pacemakers, could be subject to interference. Awareness of these possible risks lends itself readily to measures to be taken for safety.
Electrical Hazards
- Faulty wiring causing shocks or fires
- Lightning strike risks during storms
- Improper outlet grounding creating live current
- Water exposure near electrical components
Medical Complications
- Interference with implanted devices like pacemakers
- Neuropathy worsening from undetected injuries
- Infection risks for diabetic foot ulcers
- Seizure triggers for epilepsy patients
Environmental Risks
- Chemical exposure in polluted areas
- Parasite transmission through soil contact
- Extreme temperature exposure risks
- Terrain hazards like sharp objects or uneven surfaces
Strategies for prevention depend upon the environment where the mat is being used. For indoor mat users, it would be helpful to test the outlets with a multimeter every month. For outdoor practitioners of the mat, the terrain should be checked before each session for hazards. If individuals have health conditions, they may need to obtain medical clearance before forging ahead. These progressive precautions form a foundation in safety with grounding.
Special groups need specific precautions. Diabetics should check their feet daily for unseen wounds. Pregnant women need an obstetrician's approval before going to the hospital. Children need parents' supervision to protect against electric shock. Elderly people need no-slip surfaces while practicing.
Conductive Mats
- UL/CE certification mandatory
- Minimum 5mm insulation thickness
- Replace cords every 2 years
- Weekly visual inspection for damage
Grounding Rods
- 16-gauge copper wiring minimum
- Soil moisture monitoring required
- Lightning arrestor installation
- Annual resistance testing below 25Ω
Adhesive Patches
- Hypoallergenic material certification
- Single-use only policy
- Skin pH compatibility testing
- Medical-grade adhesive standards
Fostering safe actions prevents accidents. Create a checklist to test outlets and inspect equipment before sessions. Keep a grounding journal of adverse reactions. Schedule quarterly safety reviews of the practice space. This will allow for long-term safe grounding habits.
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