An electrostatic protected area (EPA) is a designated area where static is controlled under strict regulations. At Actum Group, we advise that EPAs should be viewed and completed as a whole project and not set up with individual components at various times. It is important to acknowledge that if one element within the EPA is not working effectively, all equipment is compromised.
Greg Barron, Actum Group director
The initial step in establishing an effective static control programme is an ESD audit. Before you invest money in new ESD equipment, an ESD assessment will help you identify vulnerable areas in your workplace and potentially hazardous static zones that require improvement.
At Actum Group we usually start our audits by evaluating disorder on work surfaces. These are the biggest culprits of static build-up. Checklist items required include personal grounding equipment such as wrist straps, grounding cords, ESD flooring or dissipative mats, ESD shoes and clothing apparel, all working together to prevent static build-up. We also take time to review existing testing equipment and procedures to assess whether they meet ESD standards.
A vital component in all EPAs is static control cleaning with products that should be non-toxic, non-flammable and non-staining. Most importantly, effective training programmes for all employees who work within the EPA need to be ongoing and comprehensive. Training must include ESD prevention procedures and should also explain the physics and benefits of the programme.
Why wait to automate NewElec Pretoria
Circuit & System Protection
NewElec’s initiative helps you gain operational visibility via HMI or PLC by retrofitting intelligent motor protection relays without replacing MCCs or rewiring the plant.
Read more...Clearing the Static: Effectively control static in your workplace Actum Electronics
Circuit & System Protection
Controlling electrostatic discharge in the workplace is crucial to protect sensitive electronic equipment from damage. Implementing an ESD control program involves various measures and tests.
Read more...LED driver for industrial power supply indication Altron Arrow
Editor's Choice Circuit & System Protection
A simple and small solution for driving an LED to provide visual feedback in the presence/absence of a system’s power using a chip not originally designed for this purpose.
Read more...Clearing the Static: Cleaning in an ESD-protected area Actum Electronics
Circuit & System Protection
Cleaning in a protected electrostatic discharge area is a critical task to maintain the integrity of sensitive electronic components and prevent damage caused by static electricity.
Read more...Ensuring safety with earth leakage protection NewElec Pretoria
Circuit & System Protection
Earth leakage protection helps mitigate the risks of electric shocks, fires, and equipment damage by swiftly identifying faults and disconnecting the power supply, thus safeguarding both human lives and machinery.
While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained herein, the publisher and its agents cannot be held responsible for any errors contained, or any loss incurred as a result. Articles published do not necessarily reflect the views of the publishers. The editor reserves the right to alter or cut copy. Articles submitted are deemed to have been cleared for publication. Advertisements and company contact details are published as provided by the advertiser. Technews Publishing (Pty) Ltd cannot be held responsible for the accuracy or veracity of supplied material.
printer friendly version