A smock is equipment, not a uniform.
Keeping the shield working
Laundering rules matter: fabric softeners and some detergents leave residues that raise surface resistance. Wash programs designed for dissipative textiles preserve the carbon grid.
Cuffs and closure points see the most wear. A loose cuff breaks the garment-to-skin contact that grounds the shield path.
FAQ
How do I check a smock still works?
Surface resistance testing on a set schedule, plus a visual check of cuffs, seams and snaps each wear. Anything fraying at the wrist deserves immediate attention.
Can smocks go through a normal laundry line?
Only if the line follows the garment maker's wash specification. Shared industrial laundries often need a dedicated cycle to avoid softener contamination.
How long does a smock last?
Depends on wash frequency and wear conditions. Programs that retire smocks on measured resistance rather than age avoid both premature disposal and silent failure.
All figures above refer to standard product data sheets; final confirmation is subject to written quotation.