all possible parallel paths to ground-even those beyond the immediate work area-from people, metal furniture,electrical equipment, floor mats, table mats, wrist straps, etc., must be considered. an unprotected paralleled path to ground could reduce the resistance needed for personal protection. as one example, an uncovered stud on the underside of a table mat or field-service mat can become an unimpeded parallel path to ground if the mat or field-service kit is placed on a grounded metal table or conductive computer cabinet Also, try to keep one hand in a pocket whenever working around unknown voltages.