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What is an electrostatic protected area (EPA)?

In short, an electrostatic protected area is a space where all surfaces, objects, people, and devices are kept at the same electrical potential. This means that static will be controlled by strict regulations. Now an EPA can be set up in several locations such as:

  • An entire room
  • Single workspace
  • Large manufacturing area

All these areas must be kept with a static field that does not exceed 100V as a standard. To achieve this, you must ensure that all people, products, and surfaces are bonded to the ground. That essentially means that they are linked to the ground, usually with a resistance of between 1-10 meg ohms.

When you create an EPA for a work environment, you ensure that there is a safe environment that minimises the dangers to both operators and static sensitive devices or components (such as PCBs). There are many products that can be purchased to achieve an EPA, and you can browse the Kaisertech static control range here.

Identifying an EPA
Where an area is set up as an EPA, it must be clearly identifiable as such. Employees and visitors need to be aware of the basic practices that they need to follow to limit the generation of electrostatic charges in the EPA.

Floor markings, tape or signs can be used to ensure that the message gets across to all operators and visitors about the importance of taking precautions

If protocols are not followed ESD can cause irreversible damage to components in the workspace. Below is a short list of the most popular products that can help to maintain an EPA for your business:

  • ESD footwear & clothing
  • Grounding cords
  • Wrist straps
  • Bonding plugs
  • ESD flooring
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