ESD Training - an excellent investment

Effective ESD training is probably one of the best investments in ESD measures that you can make.

An untrained person handling sensitive devices can provide a high level of ESD risk. Static electricity generated during everyday activity ensures that human body voltage is fluctuating by thousands of Volts, unless controlled by some means. An untrained person may omit to take proper ESD prevention measures, or may unwittingly use them in such a way as their effectiveness is impaired.

A trained person is less likely to make these mistakes, and they can also act as a first line defence against ESD. They can prevent non-compliant materials and equipment entering an ESD Protected Area (EPA), and warn if equipment becomes unserviceable, and may suggest valuable improvements!

So, ESD Training can help a high ESD risk become a valuable asset in the fight against ESD. Conversely, even a high level of investment in ESD equipment may become ineffective in untrained hands.

Who needs ESD training?

Everyone involved with ESD sensitive devices will need some level of training, whether their role be specification, procurement, design, handling, assembly, supervision or management. The objective of the training is to learn to effectively understand ESD issues, to understand why ESD prevention is important, and learn to use the materials, equipment and procedures correctly. Training should be provided as part of employee introduction courses, and refreshers provided at regular intervals.

What training should be given?

The content of a training program should be appropriate to the ability and job function of the trainee. An ESD Coordinator may need in-depth training on technical issues to enable them to assess ESD risk, and make decisions about specific ESD measures. A Manager may need limited technical background and ESD awareness training, but may require workshops on the cost of ESD and return on investment. QA personnel may need in-depth training on the ESD standards and their implementation.

For many personnel in a manufacturing facility, typical aspects of a training course should include;

• Basic knowledge of ESD, to a level appropriate to the trainee job function

• Special handling procedures

• Knowledge of ESD protective equipment and items

• How to identify sensitive devices (ESDS)

• The limits of ESD protection measures

• Use of any new techniques & processes before implementation

• Safety issues

• Awareness of the ESD Program and standards to an appropriate level, and where to get further ESD advice