ESD Systems - Questions And Answers

We are a contract repair company and specialize in the repair of monitors for major computer manufactures. When we are repairing the monitors, they are at benches that power up the monitor during the repair process. ESD is of a concern and therefore we have dissipative mats and wrist straps at the work stations. Our current procedures call for the wrist strap to be used when the power is off and for them to be removed when the power is on. When the monitor is on, it is capable of delivering up to 27,000 volts DC. Are we using the correct procedure? If not, how should we be protecting against ESD? - Anonymous, Raleigh, NC

Our wrist straps and heel grounders are rated at 250 VAC/500 VDC. If live voltages do not exceed 250 VAC/500 VDC use of our wrist straps and heel grounders do not increase or decrease your risk of electrical shock as tested and listed by UL. If working voltages are higher than this it is recommended that you disconnect wrist straps and heel grounders and use alternative methods to protect against ESD. Alternative methods recommended: 1) Eliminate insulate materials in working areas or use Reztore™ Topical Antistat to protect against from voltage generation. 2) Use of ionization to minimize static voltages in working area. 3) Use cotton based ESD smocks to minimize static voltage levels from clothing (grounding these may be a concern). 4) Use of StatProof® floor finish to minimize static charge generation from walking and cart movement. 5) Maintaining Humidity levels between 40 and 60% RH will reduce levels of charges generated.

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