Industrial Anti Static Wrist Strap Tester: Guidelines

Using proper grounding equipment is essential for industries handling sensitive electronics or explosive materials. An anti static wrist strap tester allows conveniently checking that wrist straps and footwear are functioning correctly to avoid dangerous electrostatic discharge (ESD). This article provides key guidelines on selecting, using, and maintaining industrial anti static wrist strap testers.

Tester Types

Various tester designs are available for different grounding equipment:

• Wrist strap testers - Check wrist band conductivity.

• Footwear testers - Verify anti static footwear.

• Combo testers - Allow testing both wrist straps and footwear.

Consider the types of ESD grounding equipment in use to choose the right tester.

Testing Features

Look for testers with these key features:

• Pass/fail indicators - Clear visual and audible alerts indicate if a strap passes or fails.

• Adjustable limits - Set the resistance limits for a pass within recommended ESD guidelines.

• Battery indicator - Alerts to replace batteries to maintain accuracy.

• Dual-wire testing - Important for testing coiled wrist cords.

• High traffic models - Durability for frequent daily use.

The right features help facilitate quick, easy testing.

Tester Placement

Strategically place testers where grounding equipment is donned:

• At room entrances where ESD lab coats or smocks are put on.

• Near shift clocks for testing at start of shifts.

• Wherever wrist straps or heel straps are distributed.

This encourages regular testing as part of the workflow.

Testing Frequency

Daily testing helps ensure properly functioning grounding equipment:

• Test wrist straps at the start and end of each shift.

• Test footwear at the start of each day.

• Test before donning ESD garments or using ESD worksurfaces.

Frequent testing catches grounding failures before they cause ESD damage.

Compliance Verification

Routine testing provides important compliance verification:

• Logs document ESD monitoring is occurring.

• Demonstrates wrist strap and footwear policies are being followed.

• Helps facilities pass ESD audits and inspections.

• Meets standards like ANSI/ESD S20.20.

Compliant testing programs are essential for quality standards.

User Training

Train staff on proper use of the anti static tester:

• Select appropriate preset test limits.

• Correctly don wrist strap and footwear for testing.

• Understand pass and fail signals.

• Replace failing grounding equipment immediately.

• Report any tester issues.

Proper training ensures correct testing procedures.

Maintenance

Follow the manufacturer's instructions to maintain testers:

• Replace batteries according to recommended schedules.

• Send units in for recalibration at suggested intervals.

• Periodically clean with isopropyl alcohol to remove contaminants.

• Download any new firmware updates as released.

Proper maintenance sustains accuracy and longevity.

Record Keeping

Document testing activities:

• Log each wrist strap or footwear test performed.

• Note any failures detected and replacements issued.

• Track calibration and maintenance.

Detailed records validate the ESD control program is working.

Conclusion

Anti static wrist strap testers are indispensable for monitoring proper functioning of grounding equipment that protects against dangerous ESD. Following guidelines on strategic tester placement, frequent testing policies, user training, and diligent maintenance provides facilities robust ESD control for handling sensitive materials. Compliance-ready recordkeeping confirms effectiveness. Keeping staff grounded with reliable anti static testers is key to productivity and safety.

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