Essentials To Know About ESD Standards
Moreover, the national electrical code 2020 can further assist you with ESD standards as well. Following the ESD protocols is very important to make sure your safety and the safety of the workers.
The importance of ESD safety standards is, no doubt, the most crucial thing on the site. However, it gets better with the help of several electronic types of equipment. Implementing the ESD safety standards is to provide the companies with the facility to create a control program. A control program is the most important thing for a company to do. This is because it helps them formulate solutions to every possible problem associated with reducing the ESD risks. Moreover, the national electrical code 2020 can further assist you with ESD standards as well. Following the ESD protocols is very important to make sure your safety and the safety of the workers.
WHAT IS ESD?
Before heading on, we first need to know what ESD is. It is a sudden flow of electricity from any two electrical sources when they come in contact. This Electrostatic Discharge occurs when oppositely charged objects are brought near each other or when the dielectric between breaks. It results in creating a visible spark.
Therefore, ESD safety standards are planned to prevent such electrical hazards at the construction site. Otherwise, it can result in severe chaos.
CATEGORIES OF ESD SAFETY STANDARDS
The ESD standards are formulated to prevent any safety hazards on the site of building and construction. The ESD of safety standards is divided into three categories. These are as follows:
- Guidance and requirements for the program
- Products and procedures
- Possible testing methods for the program
These categories will help you develop a complete plan for reducing the risk of electrical shocks and hazards. Thus, creating a control program is one of the most important things a company needs to adhere to safety protocols. Nowadays, ESD sensitive devices are used to detect any leakage or damage in the area.
PROTECTION FOR THE ESD:
ESD requires a great deal of safety protocol. Thus, here are some of the essential protection and prevention necessities for ESD:
FLOORING AND FOOTWEAR
Floor and footwear are the primary sources for electricity buildup. Therefore, to avoid that, antistatic footwear such as an antistatic shoe or heel strap is worn. Moreover, the floor needs to be antistatic as well. A conductive floor tile will be easier to work with antistatic footwear.
GLOVES
To work safely, the use of ESD safe gloves is essential. Everyone who works with sensitive electronic equipment or comes near sensitive equipment needs to wear protective gloves at all costs. Thus, the antistatic gloves will prevent any building up of those electrical charges.
IONIZATION OF THE AREA
Another important thing is the ionization of the area. Due to the regular use of electrical equipment and other electrical devices, the environment may become more conductive. Therefore, to avoid that, make sure that you use ionizers to make it less conductive.
ESD SAFE SEATING
It is better to do the work while sitting than standing. Moreover, you have to travel to various locations. Therefore, doing your work on an ESD safe seating is the best option. The ESD safe seating comprises of:
- Antistatic Tweezers
- Gloves that are antistatic finger cots
- An antistatic base
- Antistatic carrier tape
- An antistatic bag
- Grounded wrist strap
- Antistatic floor tiles
Thus, with these ESD seating equipment's help, you can prevent the ESD buildup and electrical hazard.
To create a good ESD safety plan, labels should be applied to every piece of equipment and device to identify the electrostatic discharge sensitive devices. Moreover, to determine whether your antistatic gear, floor, appliances, etc., are working correctly, use the Static Control Test Station to ensure your proper safety.
THE BOTTOM LINE:
ESD safety standards are most important when it comes to companies and buildings. A company will work to create and implement the best ESD plan. However, with the help of basic knowledge, you can make it worth the effort. The use of an antistatic floor and footwear can help you work without building any electric charges. Moreover, the antistatic tables, desks, benches, and mats can drastically reduce the chances of ESD events occurring at the site. This antistatic equipment allows the charges to ground without causing any harm.
Thus, to keep the workplace a less conducive environment for the ESD, such measures need to be strictly followed. It is the best way to enhance your workers' safety and your equipment while protecting your business. Therefore, following these protective measures is crucial for anyone who works or is present on a site conducive to electrical charges.
