An overview of standards concerning unwanted electrostatic discharges

For users and manufacturers affected by unwanted electrostatic discharges, the publication of standards concerning the control of such discharges is a great improvement and helps to prevent unwanted electrostatic discharges in potentially explosive atmospheres as well as around electrostatically sensitive devices. There are, for instance, handbook-like documents giving recommendations to help set up effective electrostatic suppressing measures and programs. Another group of standards focuses on certain products and processes and is, thus, more specific. A third group deals with test methods and specifications to help manufacturers develop products that are safe. It also helps in comparisons with other products and thus meets the customer's real needs. To assist manufacturers and customers in finding an applicable standard, an annotated list of the most relevant standards and reports on unwanted electrostatic discharges is given. This compilation does not include special electrostatic processes such as electrostatic copying or material separation except for those processes executed in explosive atmosphere.