ESD Control in High-Volume Production
In high-volume electronics and semiconductor production, electrostatic discharge is one of the most costly and preventable sources of product failure. A single uncontrolled discharge can damage sensitive components invisibly, causing latent defects that only surface after a product reaches the customer. The ESD control experts at Medco Supplies have put together this guide to help you build a reliable ESD protection program that scales with your production volume.
Why ESD Control Matters in High-Volume Environments
The faster your line moves, the more opportunities there are for ESD events. Human contact, friction from packaging materials, and movement across non-dissipative flooring all generate static charge. The ANSI/ESD S20.20 standard defines the requirements for a comprehensive ESD control program and is the benchmark for electronics manufacturers worldwide. At high volumes, even a small percentage of ESD-damaged components translates into significant rework costs, warranty claims, and customer returns.
Personnel Grounding: Your First Line of Defense
People are the most frequent source of ESD events on a production floor. Grounding every operator is the single most effective step you can take. Essential personnel grounding supplies include:
✓ ESD conductive shoe covers with carbon strip soles for continuous grounding while walking the line
✓ Heel grounders as a cost-effective alternative for seated operators
✓ ESD safe stretch nylon gloves to prevent charge transfer from hands to components
✓ Static dissipative finger cots for precision work on individual components
Workstation and Surface Protection
Grounding your operators is not enough if the surfaces they work on are not also controlled. Static charge can accumulate on workbenches, carts, and packaging materials and discharge onto components. Key workstation ESD controls include:
✓ ESD-grounded sticky mats at all workstation and cleanroom entry points
✓ PolyPure ESD safe wipers for cleaning workstations and equipment without generating a charge
✓ ESD dissipative bags and trays for component storage and transport between stations
✓ Anti-static labels and signage designating EPA zones throughout the production floor
Maintaining Your ESD Program at Scale
An ESD program is only as strong as its weakest link. In high-volume production, supply consistency is critical. Running out of ESD supplies mid-shift forces operators to work unprotected or improvise with non-rated alternatives, both of which compromise your entire program. Best practices for maintaining ESD protection at scale include:
✓ Establishing par levels for every ESD supply category and reordering before they run out
✓ Bulk ordering shoe covers, gloves, and finger cots to reduce per-unit cost and avoid stockouts
✓ Replacing sticky mats every 30 to 50 walk-throughs, not on a calendar schedule
✓ Conducting regular audits of your ESD program per ANSI/ESD S20.20 requirements
✓ Training new operators on ESD procedures before they touch any sensitive components
Order Your ESD Supplies in Bulk Today
Keeping your production line protected starts with having the right ESD supplies on hand at all times. Medco Supplies offers competitive bulk pricing and same-day shipping on a full range of ESD control products. To get a quote for a bulk order, contact us today.
FAQs
Q: When will my order ship?
A: Most orders ship the same day.
Q: Can I get help with my order?
A: Our online support team offers professional advice and support.
Q: Can I return it?
A: Our customer service representative can help you with returns.
Sources
ANSI/ESD S20.20: Protection of Electrical and Electronic Parts, Assemblies and Equipment. ESD Association. https://www.esda.org/standards/ansi-esd-s20-20/
ISO 14644-1: Cleanrooms and Associated Controlled Environments – Classification of Air Cleanliness by Particle Concentration. International Organization for Standardization. https://www.iso.org/standard/53394.html
OSHA 29 CFR 1910.132: Personal Protective Equipment General Requirements. Occupational Safety and Health Administration. https://www.osha.gov/laws-regs/regulations/standardnumber/1910/1910.132
