Have you ever experienced a sudden shock when you touch a metal doorknob? This jolt is the electrostatic discharge between objects. There are many reasons for static electricity, such as dry and cold weather, air humidity, clothing materials, or people’s physique and dry skin, all of which can easily generate static electricity.
The main body of most wheelchairs is made of aluminum metal material. As a result of environmental conditions, the user or caregiver will inevitably build up static electricity when using it.
The following are a few tips to prevent static electricity building up between the wheelchair and the user or caregiver:
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Increase the humidity levels indoors.
This makes it more difficult for static electricity to generate because there will be less friction. For example, in winter when weather is relatively dry, you can use a humidifier to increase the indoor air humidity.
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Consider the material of the user’s clothes.
Wearing cotton, silk, linen and other natural fibers can help prevent the buildup of static electricity.
Tip: avoid rubber soles (opt for leather shoes).
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When touching a wheelchair, first touch with the palm or knuckles.
Because there are fewer nerve endings. If there is any static electricity, it will hurt less in these areas.
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Try adding accessories that can help to prevent the accumulation of static electricity on a wheelchair.
The wheelchair can be equipped with “anti-static strips” to dissipate any generated static electricity.
A final reminder:
these small methods cannot 100% guarantee the removal of static electricity every time. The human body is always discharging electricity when touching objects, but it depends on the amount of electricity as to whether the human body can feel the electric shock.
We hope that these methods can help reduce the chance of feeling electric shocks and use wheelchairs more comfortably and confidently.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why do I sometimes feel a shock when I touch parts of the wheelchair, such as frame, wheels, or metal? Is there something wrong with the wheelchair?
A: That sudden zap is static electricity, not a defect. When conditions are dry, cold, or when humidity is low, static builds up easily. Clothing material (synthetic vs natural), skin dryness, even walking around on certain floor surfaces can contribute. KARMA wheelchairs are built using appropriate materials, and we offer anti-static accessories (like anti-static strips) to help discharge static safely so the shocks happen less often and are milder.
Q: What are anti-static strips and how do they work? Will they affect how I use my wheelchair?
A: Anti-static strips are accessories that help discharge static electricity from the wheelchair safely to the ground or nearby surfaces. KARMA’s anti-static options are designed to be discreet, durable and easy to install, so they don’t interfere with your movement, comfort or aesthetics. Once installed, they do their work quietly — reducing shocks without being noticeable.
Q: Can static electricity harm my skin or interfere with medical equipment?
A: Generally, static shocks are harmless though uncomfortable. But for sensitive skin, frequent shocks could cause irritation. If you have medical devices (e.g. monitors, implants), sudden discharges might be more concerning. KARMA can help you choose wheelchairs and accessories that comply with safety standards, and recommend ways to reduce static especially around sensitive parts or devices.
Q: Where can I in Thailand buy these anti-static accessories or get help installing them?
A: KARMA Thailand has dealers, service centres and customer support reachable across the country. You can:
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KARMA can also arrange shipping of accessories and provide guidance (photos, videos, or phone support) to help you install them correctly.
Q: Do I need to replace the anti-static strip often? How much maintenance is needed?
A: These strips are made to last. Maintenance is minimal:
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Check occasionally to make sure the strip still contacts the ground properly (not bent or lifted).
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Clean gently if dirty (use mild soap/water; avoid harsh chemicals).
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If it wears out or is damaged, you can get replacement parts from KARMA dealers. Using genuine parts ensures safety and effectiveness.
