Grass Valley Maestro Master Control Installation v.2.4.0 - Manual (Page 32)

32 MAESTRO — Installation and Service Manual
ESD Protection
Sources of ESD and Risks
The following information identifies possible sources of electrostatic dis-
charge and can be used to help establish an ESD policy.
Personnel
One of the largest sources of static is personnel. The static can be released
from a person’s clothing and shoes.
Environment
The environment includes the humidity and floors in a work area. The
humidity level must be controlled and should not be allowed to fluctuate
over a broad range. Relative humidity (RH) is a major part in determining
the level of static that is being generated. For example, at 10% - 20% RH a
person walking across a carpeted floor can develop 35kV; yet when the rel-
ative humidity is increased to 70% - 80%, the person can only generate
1.5kV.
Static is generated as personnel move (or as equipment is moved) across a
floor’s surface. Carpeted and waxed vinyl floors contribute to static build
up.
Work Surfaces
Painted or vinyl-covered tables, chairs, conveyor belts, racks, carts, anod-
ized surfaces, plexiglass covers, and shelving are all static generators.
Equipment
Any equipment commonly found in an ESD work area, such as solder
guns, heat guns, blowers, etc., should be grounded.
Materials
Plastic work holders, foam, plastic tote boxes, pens, packaging containers
and other items commonly found at workstations can generate static elec-
tricity.