The best method of preventing ESD is to use an ESD wrist strap or an earthing mat or table. ESD can occur without the user feeling a shock and will occur when only working on the inside of the computer or handling hardware. It is like when you rub your feet on the carpet and you touch something metal. ESD should not be taken lightly as this is one of the few things that an individual can do to damage or destroy their computer or hardware components. ElectroStatic Discharge, ESD is simply the discharge of built-up static electricity.
