ESD safety is an important topic, particularly in industries where sensitive electronic components are involved. However, there are many misconceptions surrounding ESD safety, especially when it comes to the use of cardboard and cotton clothing.
Cardboard, for example, is often thought of as a safe material for packaging and handling electronic components (motherboard boxes included). However, it can actually generate a significant amount of static electricity, which can damage sensitive components. Similarly, cotton clothing is often thought of as a safe material to wear in ESD-sensitive environments, but it can actually generate static electricity as well, polyester is generally considered preferred over cotton.
It is a common misconception that electrostatic discharge only causes damage if you can feel it. In reality, ESD can cause damage to sensitive electronic components even if you don't feel anything.
In fact, the damage caused by ESD can be more insidious when it is not noticeable. This is because when ESD is felt, individuals are more likely to take precautions to prevent it from happening again. However, when ESD is not felt, individuals may not even be aware that damage has occurred, leading to potential failures or malfunctions down the line.
I would advise anyone working electronics in any capacity, it's important to keep ESD in mind, as many sporadic issues are more than likely related to electrostatic discharge in some capacity.