Abstract: A telecommunications terminal apparatus, connected to a transmission facility which includes a source of energizing current and an earth connection, is protected from static discharge of the type typically originating with a user. The terminal apparatus includes an ABS housing with one or more apertures therein to facilitate user actuation of various control buttons or keys. The periphery of each aperture is rendered electrically conductive. A low impedance sink such as a remote power supply, earth or a transmission line is connected to the electrically conductive periphery via a variable impedance element, for example a pair of back to back zener diodes. The housing also includes a conductive foot for contact with a supporting surface. The conductive foot is also connected with the conductive periphery of the aperture.