How to Prevent Static Damage?

What is Electrostatic Discharge (ESD)?

Understanding the Invisible Threat to Electronics – by HORBEST

Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) is the sudden flow of electricity between two electrically charged objects due to contact or a dielectric breakdown. When two objects are at different electrostatic potentials and come close, a rapid charge equalization can occur — this is ESD.

While the typical “zap” you feel after walking across a carpet may seem harmless, ESD can silently destroy sensitive electronic components — often without any visible damage. For manufacturers, repair technicians, and electronics labs, ESD is a hidden hazard that can cause serious product failures and financial loss.

📉 Industry estimates show that ESD causes between 8% to 33% of electronics manufacturing losses — totaling billions in annual costs worldwide.

⚠️ Why Is ESD Dangerous?

  • Microscopic damage to ICs and transistors

  • Latent failures that pass testing but fail in the field

  • Increased return rates, rework, and warranty costs

At HORBEST, we’ve seen firsthand how ESD can impact quality and reliability. That’s why we’re committed to empowering electronics professionals with world-class ESD protection tools and training.

✅ HORBEST Guide: 4 Ways to Prevent ESD Damage

1. Only Handle Sensitive Components in an ESD Protected Area (EPA)

When opening static-sensitive packaging (e.g. ICs, PCBs), always do so within an Electrostatic Protected Area (EPA) — a space where every surface, tool, and person is grounded.

  • Never open ESD packaging outside the EPA.

  • Use HORBEST ESD workstations, mats, and earth bonding systems to maintain a safe zone.

  • Clearly mark and enforce EPA zones.

A compliant EPA can be as small as one bench or as large as a factory floor — HORBEST solutions scale to fit.

2. Use Proper Personnel Grounding Gear

Operators are the #1 source of static electricity. Protect your work by grounding personnel using reliable static control gear.

HORBEST offers:

  • Anti-static wrist straps and cords

  • ESD garments and gloves

  • ESD footwear and heel straps

  • Wrist strap testers and access control systems

Best Practices:

  • Test wrist straps and footwear daily with HORBEST test stations.

  • Keep wristbands snug and heel strap tabs inside the shoe.

  • Wear ESD smocks that cover all clothing to prevent charge buildup.

3. Keep Workstations Static-Safe

Insulators like paper, plastics, or foam generate and hold static — they have no place near static-sensitive electronics.

HORBEST recommends:

  • Use anti-static mats, ESD-safe tools, and grounded storage bins.

  • Remove unnecessary high-charging items from the EPA.

  • Deploy HORBEST ionizers to neutralize essential insulators.

Train all employees on EPA rules, and only allow access to those wearing full ESD protection.

4. Use ESD-Safe Storage & Transport Methods

Outside of the EPA, components are vulnerable to environmental static. Protect your products at every stage — from bench to shelf to shipment.

Use only HORBEST-approved shielding containers:

  • Static shielding bags

  • Conductive bins

  • Corstat packaging boxes

📦 Always fully seal containers — even a small tear can expose devices to static risk.

🔧 HORBEST ESD Control Solutions

We offer a full suite of ESD-safe tools and systems, trusted by global electronics manufacturers and labs.

Top Products:

  • ESD workstation kits (mat, wrist strap, ground cord, signage)

  • Anti-static mats (table and floor)

  • Adjustable wrist strap testers

  • Ionizing air blowers

  • ESD chairs, carts, and grounding accessories

All HORBEST products are built to meet or exceed international ESD control standards (ANSI/ESD S20.20, IEC 61340).

🤝 Partner with HORBEST – Your Static Control Experts

With over 29 years of experience, HORBEST is China’s trusted brand for ESD-safe environments. Whether you’re building a new EPA, upgrading your workstation, or training your team — we have the tools, systems, and expertise to help.

📞 Call us now: +86 13714272599
🌐 Visit: www.esdbest.com
📬 Or fill in the contact form below to talk to an ESD specialist.

Let HORBEST protect your electronics — from production line to final shipment.