ESD Systems - Questions And Answers

We manufacture Audio Amps and our tech's don't like to wear wrist straps when they test the amps. While there are electronic components that can be damaged by static electricity, sometimes they work on the units hot and are worried about shock hazard. Should they be wearing a wrist strap? - Don Wildes, Connor Contract Manufacturing, Columbia, CA

When used properly and as recommended, Wrist Straps neither increase nor decrease the chance of electrical shock. When used with voltage levels that exceed 250 VAC, then you should check with your safety officer before grounding personnel when working on live powered equipment or just do not wear grounding apparatus. BUT, NO MATTER WHAT YOU DO IF THERE IS EVER ANY DOUBT, THE SAFETY OF THE PERSON ALWAYS COMES FIRST.

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