CLC/SR 101 - Electrostatics

IEC 61340-5-1:2024 applies to organizations that: manufacture, process, assemble, install, package, label, service, test, inspect, transport, or otherwise handle electrical or electronic parts, assemblies and equipment with withstand voltages greater than or equal to 100 V human body model (HBM) and 200 V charge device model (CDM). Also, protection from isolated conductors is addressed by limiting the voltage on isolated conductors to less than 35 V. ESDS with lower withstand voltages can require additional control elements or adjusted limits. Processes designed to handle items that have lower ESD withstand voltage(s) can still claim compliance to this document. This document provides the requirements for an ESD control program. IEC TR 61340-5-2 provides guidance on the implementation of this document. This document does not apply to electrically initiated explosive devices, flammable liquids, gases, and powders. The purpose of this document is to provide the administrative and technical requirements for establishing, implementing, and maintaining an ESD control program (hereinafter referred to as the “program”). This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous edition: a) definitions have been added to the document; b) updates to product qualification requirements; c) subclause 5.3.3 now includes a reference to groundable static control garment systems; d) Table 2 was replaced; e) subclause 5.3.4.2 was updated to define what an insulator is; f) subclause 5.3.4.3 was updated to include a definition for isolated conductor; g) Table 3 was updated, technical items added, including a reference to IEC 61340-5-4 for compliance verification testing; h) Table 4 was added as a summary of the requirements in IEC 61340-5-3 and to include requirements for compliance verification of packaging; i) Annex A was replaced: the former Annex is no longer required. Annex A are examples of tailoring.

This part of IEC 61340 describes test methods for measuring the rate of dissipation of static charge of insulating and static materials and products. It includes a generic description of test methods and detailed test procedures for specific applications. The two test methods for measuring charge decay time, one using corona charging and one using a charged metal plate are different and might not give equivalent results. Nevertheless, each method has a range of applications for which it is best suited. The corona charging method is suitable for evaluating the ability of materials, for example textiles, packaging, etc., to dissipate charge from their own surfaces. The charged metal plate method is suitable for evaluating the ability of materials and objects such as gloves, finger cots, hand tools, etc. to dissipate charge from conductive objects placed on or in contact with them. The charged plate method might not be suitable for evaluating the ability of materials to dissipate charge from their own surfaces. In addition to its general application, this horizontal standard is also intended for use by technical committees in the preparation of standards in accordance with the principles laid down in IEC Guide 108. One of the responsibilities of a technical committee is, wherever applicable, to make use of horizontal standards in the preparation of its publications. The contents of this horizontal standard shall not apply unless specifically referred to or included in the relevant publications.

This part of IEC 61340 defines the ESD protective packaging properties needed to protect ESD sensitive devices (ESDS) through all phases of production, rework/maintenance, transport and storage. Test methods are referenced to evaluate packaging and packaging materials for these product and material properties. Performance limits are provided. This standard does not address protection from electromagnetic interference (EMI), electromagnetic pulsing (EMP) or protection of electrically initiated explosive materials or devices.

IEC 61340-6-1:2018 applies to facilities that provide healthcare including hospitals, care centres and clinics. This document provides technical requirements and recommendations for controlling electrostatic phenomena in healthcare facilities, which includes requirements for equipment, materials, and products used to control static electricity. The requirements of this document do not apply to medical electrical equipment specified in IEC 60601-1 and in vitro diagnostic (IVD) medical equipment specified in IEC 61010‑2‑101.

NEW!IEC 61340-4-4:2018 is available as IEC 61340-4-4:2018 RLV which contains the International Standard and its Redline version, showing all changes of the technical content compared to the previous edition.
IEC 61340-4-4:2018 specifies requirements for flexible intermediate bulk containers (FIBC) between 0,25 m3 and 3 m3 in volume, intended for use in hazardous explosive atmospheres. The explosive atmosphere can be created by the contents in the FIBC or can exist outside the FIBC. The requirements include: – classification and labelling of FIBC; – classification of inner liners; – specification of test methods for each type of FIBC, inner liner, labels and document pockets; – design and performance requirements for FIBC, inner liners, labels and document pockets; – safe use of FIBC (including those with inner liners) within different zones defined for explosion endangered environments, described for areas where combustible dusts are, or can be, present (IEC 60079-10-2), and for explosive gas atmospheres (IEC 60079-10-1); – procedures for type qualification and certification of FIBC, including the safe use of inner liners. This third edition cancels and replaces the second edition, published in 2012, and Amendment 1:2014. This edition constitutes a technical revision. This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous edition: a) in light of experimental evidence, the maximum resistance to ground limit for Type C FIBC, and corresponding resistance limits for inner liners used in Type C FIBC has been increased from 10 M ohms to 100 M ohms; b) the classification of Type L1 inner liners has been revised and extended to include Type L1C inner liners made from multi-layer materials with a conductive internal layer; c) a labelling requirement to include a reference to IEC TS 60079-32-1 for guidance on earthing has been added.

NEW! IEC 61340-4-5:2018 is available as IEC 61340-4-5:2018 RLV which contains the International Standard and its Redline version, showing all changes of the technical content compared to the previous edition.
IEC 61340-4-5:2018 specifies test methods for evaluating electrostatic protection provided by a system of footwear and flooring in combination with a person. Test results are valid only for the specific footwear and flooring combination tested. The test methods are not intended for individual product qualification purposes. This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous edition: a) normative references have been updated; b) Figure 2 has been improved and expanded to include actual examples of body voltage recordings, and text has been added to explain how to interpret recordings; c) an alternative walking pattern has been added in an informative annex.

IEC 61340-4-3:2017 describes a test method for determining the electrical resistance of footwear (shoes, slippers or booties) used in the control of electrostatic potential on people. This document is suitable for use by the manufacturer of footwear as well as the end user. A method for measuring the electrical resistance of footwear alone is described and serves as a qualification test or an acceptance test for new footwear, or as a periodic test of in-use footwear. Although this document does not include requirements for personal safety, footwear used within the scope of this document in all places of work is regulated by the relevant local statutory requirements regarding the health and safety of all persons. Insulating footwear is not included within the scope of this document although the electrical resistance measurement techniques can be applicable. This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous edition: a) classification of footwear as electrostatic conductive or electrostatic dissipative has been removed – classification is not specified; b) environmental classes for laboratory testing have been removed – one set of conditions for pre-conditioning, conditioning and testing is specified; c) reference to IEC 61340-2-3 for measuring the resistance of the counter electrode inserted inside footwear has been removed.

IEC 61340-4-7:2017 provides test methods and procedures for evaluating and selecting air ionization equipment and systems (ionizers). This document establishes measurement techniques, under specified conditions, to determine offset voltage (ion balance) and decay (charge neutralization) time for ionizers. This document does not include measurements of electromagnetic interference (EMI), or the use of ionizers in connection with ordnance, flammables, explosive items or electrically initiated explosive devices. As contained in this document, the test methods and test conditions can be used by manufacturers of ionizers to provide performance data describing their products. Users of ionizers are urged to modify the test methods and test conditions for their specific application in order to qualify ionizers for use, or to make periodic verifications of ionizer performance. The user will decide the extent of the data required for each application. This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous edition: - the use of contacting plate voltage measurements in addition to the previous non-contacting plate voltage measurements has been added. Charged plate monitors (CPMs) using this technology have been in use in the industry for many years.

Applies to activities that: manufacture, process, assemble, install, package, label, service, test, inspect, transport or otherwise handle electrical or electronic parts, assemblies and equipment susceptible to damage by electrostatic discharges greater than or equal to 100 V human body model (HBM). Provides the requirements for an ESD control program. The user should refer to IEC 61340-5-2 for guidance on the implementation of this standard. Does not apply to electrically initiated explosive devices, flammable liquids, gases and powders. The purpose of this standard is to provide the administrative and technical requirements for establishing, implementing and maintaining an ESD control program (hereinafter referred to as the 'program'). The main changes with respect to the previous edition are listed below: This version of IEC 61340-5-1 focuses on the requirements for an ESD control program. In addition, this version of IEC 61340-5-1 has been aligned with other major ESD control program standards used throughout the world.

IEC 61340-4-9:2016 provides test methods for evaluating the electrical resistance of garments that contain surface conductive or dissipative components or materials used in the electronics industry for the control of electrostatic discharge. This standard defines procedures for measuring electrical resistance, including a system resistance test for garments that provide a ground path for personnel. This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous edition: a) classification of three types of garments - static control garments, - groundable static control garments, and - groundable static control garment system; b) additional measurements according to the the garment type including cuff measurements, panel to groundable point, testing with a person in the garment system; c) sleeve to sleeve measurements allowed with probes or by hanging; d) additional recommended values for new garment types as set out in Annex A.

Describes test methods for the determination of the electrical resistance and resistivity of solid materials in the range from 10K Ohm to 1T Ohm used to avoid electrostatic charge accumulation. It takes account of existing IEC/ISO standards and other published information, and gives recommendations and guidelines on the appropriate method.

IEC 61340-2-1:2015 describes test methods for measuring the rate of dissipation of static charge of insulating and static dissipative materials and products. It includes a generic description of test methods and detailed test procedures for specific applications. The two test methods for measuring charge decay time, one using corona charging and one using a charged metal plate are different and may not give equivalent results. Nevertheless, each method has a range of applications for which it is best suited. The corona charging method is suitable for evaluating the ability of materials, e.g. textiles, packaging, etc., to dissipate charge from their own surfaces. The charged metal plate method is suitable for evaluating the ability of materials and objects such as gloves, finger cots, hand tools, etc. to dissipate charge from conductive objects placed on or in contact with them. The charged plate method may not be suitable for evaluating the ability of materials to dissipate charge from their own surfaces. In addition to its general application, this horizontal standard is also intended for use by technical committees in the preparation of standards in accordance with the principles laid down in IEC Guide 108. This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous edition: a) the first edition supported requirements in IEC TR 61340-5-1, but with the revision of IEC TR 61340-5-1 into an International Standard, this support is no longer required; references to IEC 61340-5-1 have been removed; b) the introduction gives additional information on when charge decay time measurements are appropriate, and the applications for which each of the two test methods are best suited; c) procedures for performance verification of measuring instruments for the corona charging method have been added. IEC 61340-2-1:2015 has the status of a horizontal standard in accordance with IEC Guide 108.

IEC 61340-5-3:2015 defines the ESD protective packaging properties needed to protect electrostatic discharge sensitive devices (ESDS) through all phases of production, rework/maintenance, transport and storage. Test methods are referenced to evaluate packaging and packaging materials for these product and material properties. Performance limits are provided. This standard does not address protection from electromagnetic interference (EMI), electromagnetic pulsing (EMP) or protection of volatile materials. This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous edition: a) removal of all references to ANSI/ESD STM11.13, replaced by normative reference IEC 61340-4-10; b) additional notes added to Table 1; c) addition of a new Table 3 related to the "ESD classification symbol" and the "primary function code".

IEC 61340-4-6:2015 provides electrical and mechanical test methods and performance limits for evaluation, acceptance and periodic verification testing of wrist straps. This standard is intended for testing wrist straps and wrist strap systems used for the grounding of personnel engaged in working with ESD sensitive assemblies and devices. It does not address constant monitoring systems. This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous edition: a) editorial comments made during the review of the first edition were reviewed and incorporated where appropriate; b) several changes were made to update the Figures and improve the presentation of metric measurements (Imperial measurements have been removed); c) the option of using an integrated checker for wrist strap system continuity testing has been added; d) the evaluation and acceptance limit for wrist strap resistance has been changed so as to harmonize with IEC 61340-5-1.

IEC 61340-4-8:2014 provides a test method for evaluating the performance of electrostatic discharge shielding bags tested according to the requirements of IEC 61340-5-3. The design voltage for the test apparatus is 1 000 V d.c. The test method presented in this standard can also be applied to packaging other than shielding bags. The purpose of this standard is to ensure that testing laboratories who use this test method to evaluate a given packaging material will obtain similar results. This standard does not address protection from electromagnetic interference (EMI), radio frequency interference (RFI), electromagnetic pulsing (EMP) nor protection against volatile materials. This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous edition: a) modification to the title to include the word "Electrostatic" before discharge shielding"; b) removal of normative references ANSI/ESD STM5.1 and ASTM D-257-78 and replaced by normative references IEC 61340-3-1 and IEC 60093; c) new normative reference to IEC 61340-5-3 added, because the requirement for shielding bags have been included in this standard; d) imperial units have been removed.

Specifies test methods for determining the electrical resistance of all types of floor coverings and installed floors with resistance to ground, point-to-point resistance and vertical resistance of between 104 W and 1013 W. Laboratory evaluations carried out under controlled environmental conditions can be used for classification or quality control purposes. Tests on installed floors under uncontrolled ambient conditions can be used to determine correct installation or as part of an ongoing system verification. The important changes refer only to the specification of test methods but do not contain classification or performance requirements; the test methods refer to resistance measurement, and the specified equipment comply more with those of the other parts of EN 61340

This part of IEC 61340 provides test methods for measuring the electrical resistance of garments used for static control applications. These test methods can be used for evaluating outer garments that are homogenously conductive or homogeneously dissipative, or that utilize surface conductive or surface dissipative components or elements. NOTE The test methods defined in this standard might not be able to measure materials with buried conductive layers. The resistance point-to-point test method tests the electrical resistance between the two sleeves, any two panels or any two or more electrically interconnected components of the static control garment, including the electrical resistance across the seams and cuffs of the garment as applicable. An alternate sleeve-to-sleeve test method is allowed, using clamps to hang a garment. Static control garments that electrically bond to the wearer and provide a path to ground from the wearer are evaluated using the resistance point-to-point test method, the resistance point to groundable point test method, as well as a system test to determine the resistance from the person through the garment to the groundable point of the garment system. A band resistance measurement test is provided in IEC 61340-4-6 which can be used for garments so equipped with cuffs that are intended to perform the same function as a wrist strap band. The system test with a person wearing a groundable static control garment system includes the ground cord that connects to the groundable point of the garment.

This part of IEC 61340 provides test methods and procedures for evaluating and selecting air ionization equipment and systems (ionizers). This document establishes measurement techniques, under specified conditions, to determine offset voltage (ion balance) and decay (charge neutralization) time for ionizers. This document does not include measurements of electromagnetic interference (EMI), or the use of ionizers in connection with ordnance, flammables, explosive items or electrically initiated explosive devices. As contained in this document, the test methods and test conditions can be used by manufacturers of ionizers to provide performance data describing their products. Users of ionizers are urged to modify the test methods and test conditions for their specific application in order to qualify ionizers for use, or to make periodic verifications of ionizer performance. The user will decide the extent of the data required for each application. See Annex A for information regarding theoretical background and additional information on the standard test method for the performance of ionizers. CAUTION: Procedures and equipment described in this document can expose personnel to hazardous electrical and non-electrical conditions. Users of this document are responsible for selecting equipment that complies with applicable laws, regulatory codes and both external and internal policy. Users are cautioned that this document cannot replace or supersede any requirements for personnel safety. See Annex C for safety considerations.

PWI created for possible future // procedures

IEC 61340-4-4:2012 specifies requirements for flexible intermediate bulk containers (FIBC) between 0,25 m3 and 3 m3 in volume, intended for use in hazardous explosive atmospheres. The explosive atmosphere may be created by the contents in the FIBC or may exist outside the FIBC. The requirements include: - classification and labelling of FIBC; - classification of inner liners; - specification of test methods for each type of FIBC and inner liner; - design and performance requirements for FIBC and inner liners; - safe use of FIBC (including those with inner liners) within different zones defined for explosion endangered environments, described for areas where combustible dusts are, or may be, present (IEC 60079-10-2), and for explosive gas atmospheres (IEC 60079-10-1); - procedures for type qualification and certification of FIBC, including the safe use of inner liners. The requirements of this standard are applicable to all types of FIBC and inner liners, tested as manufactured, prior to use and intended for use in hazardous explosive atmospheres: Zones 1 and 2 (Groups IIA and IIB only) and Zones 21 and 22. For some types of FIBC, the requirements of this standard apply only to use in hazardous explosive atmospheres with minimum ignition energy of 0,14 mJ or greater and where charging currents do not exceed 3,0 μA. Compliance with the requirements specified in this standard does not necessarily ensure that hazardous electrostatic discharges, e.g. cone discharges, will not be generated by the contents in FIBC. Compliance with the requirements of this standard does not mitigate the need for full risk assessment. For example, metal and other conductive powders and toner powders may require additional precautions to prevent hazardous discharges from the powders. Test methods included in this standard may be used in association with other performance requirements, for example when a risk assessment has shown the minimum ignition energy of concern is less than 0,14 mJ, charging currents are greater than 3,0 μA, or the ambient conditions are outside of the range specified in this standard. Compliance with the requirements specified in this standard does not necessarily ensure that electric shocks to personnel will not occur from FIBC during normal use. This second edition cancels and replaces the first edition, published in 2005, and constitutes a technical revision. The main changes with respect to the first edition are listed below: a) Adoption of a type classification system for FIBC based on four types: A, B, C and D. b) Guidance for safe use of FIBC in relation to hazardous areas and hazardous zones defined in IEC 60079-10-1 and IEC 60079-10-2 is added. c) Resistance to groundable points and electrical breakdown voltage measurements on FIBC shall be measured at low humidity only. d) Requirements for labelling FIBC are changed to improve clarity and ease of recognition by end users. e) Classification, performance requirements and guidance for safe use of inner liners in combination with FIBC are added. f) An informative annex giving guidance on test methods for quality control and inspection testing is added.

IEC 61340-5-3:2010 defines the ESD protective packaging properties needed to protect electrostatic discharge sensitive devices (ESDS) through all phases of production, transport and storage. Test methods are referenced to evaluate packaging and packaging materials for these product and material properties. Performance limits are provided. This standard does not address protection from electromagnetic interference (EMI), radio frequency interference (RFI), electromagnetic pulsing (EMP) nor protection of volatile materials.

Applies to activities that: manufacture, process, assemble, install, package, label, service, test, inspect, transport or otherwise handle electrical or electronic parts, assemblies and equipment susceptible to damage by electrostatic discharges greater than or equal to 100 V human body model (HBM). Provides the requirements for an ESD control program. The user should refer to IEC 61340-5-2 for guidance on the implementation of this standard. Does not apply to electrically initiated explosive devices, flammable liquids, gases and powders. The purpose of this standard is to provide the administrative and technical requirements for establishing, implementing and maintaining an ESD control program (hereinafter referred to as the 'program'). The main changes with respect to the previous edition are listed below: This version of IEC 61340-5-1 focuses on the requirements for an ESD control program. In addition, this version of IEC 61340-5-1 has been aligned with other major ESD control program standards used throughout the world.

Describes the discharge current waveforms used to simulate human body model (HBM) electrostatic discharges (ESD) and the basic requirements for equipment used to develop and verify these waveforms. This standard covers HBM ESD waveforms for use in general test methods and for application to materials or objects, electronic components and other items for ESD withstand-test or performance-evaluation purposes. The specific application of these HBM ESD waveforms to non-powered semiconductor devices is covered in IEC 60749-26. The waveforms defined in this standard are not intended for use in the testing of powered electronic systems for electromagnetic compatibility (EMC), which is covered in IEC 61000-4-2. The major change of this document is that it no longer contains the application to semiconductor devices

Describes the discharge current waveforms used to simulate machine model (MM) electrostatic discharges (ESD) and the basic requirements for equipment used to develop and verify these waveforms. This standard covers MM ESD waveforms for use in general test methods and for application to materials or objects, electronic components and other items for ESD withstand test or performance evaluation purposes. The specific application of these MM ESD waveforms to non-powered semiconductor devices is covered in IEC 60749-27. The major change of this document is that it no longer contains the application to semiconductor devices.

Describes procedures for evaluating the ignition risk presented by electrostatic discharges from FIBC to flammable or explosive environments. The requirements of this standard are applicable to all types of FIBC, tested as manufactured, prior to usage, intended for use without liners in flammable or explosive environments with minimum ignition energy of more than 0,14 mJ, and where the charging currents do not exceed 3,0 A. NOTE 0,14 mJ is the minimum ignition energy normally quoted for methanol. Although more sensitive materials exist, methanol has the lowest minimum ignition energy of any material that is likely to be present when FIBC are emptied. 3,0 uA is the highest charging current likely to be found in common industrial processes. This combination of minimum ignition energy and charging current represents the most severe conditions that might be expected in practice. Compliance with the requirements of this standard does not mitigate the need for full risk assessment. The test methods included in this standard may be used in association with other performance requirements, for example when a risk assessment has shown the minimum ignition energy of concern is less than 0,14 mJ or charging currents greater than 3,0 uA are present.

This technical report has been developed to support IEC 61340-5-1. The controls and limits referenced in IEC 61340-5-1 were developed to protect devices that are susceptible to discharges of 100 V or greater using the human body model test method. However, the general concepts are still valid for devices that are susceptible to discharges of less than 100 V. The main changes with respect to the previous edition are listed below: This version has been modified to provide guidance for users of IEC 61340-5-1. The text has been arranged to follow the requirements of IEC 61340-5-1 as closely as possible as well as providing specific guidance on each of the requirements of IEC 61340-5-1. The contents of the corrigendum of May 2009 have been included in this copy.

Specifies test methods for evaluating electrostatic protection provided by a system of footwear and flooring in combination with a person. The test methods are not intended for individual material or system classification purposes.

Describes test methods for measuring the rate of dissipation of static charge of insulating and static dissipative materials and products. It includes a generic description of test methods and detailed test procedures for specific applications.

Describes the discharge current waveforms used to define the MM and the basic equipment requirements used to develop these waveforms. Test parameters are defined for testing and classifying the electrostatic discharge (ESD) sensitivity of non-powered devices to the MM. The purpose of this standard is to establish a test model that will replicate MM failures and will define the MM transient current discharge waveform and all necessary test parameters to ensure reliable, reproducible test results. Reproducible data will allow accurate comparisons of MM ESD sensitivity levels.

Describes the discharge current waveforms used to define the HBM and the basic equipment requirements used to develop these waveforms. Test parameters are defined for testing and classifying the electrostatic discharge (ESD) sensitivity of non-powered devices to the HBM. The purpose of this standard is to establish a test model that will replicate HBM failures and will define the HBM transient current discharge waveform and all necessary test parameters to ensure reliable, reproducible test results. Reproducible data will allow accurate comparisons of HBM ESD sensitivity levels.

Describes a test method for determining the electrical resistance of footwear used in the control of electrostatic potential on people. This standard is suitable for use by the manufacturer of footwear as well as the end user. A method for measuring the electrical resistance of footwear alone is described and serves as an acceptance test for new footwear. Insulating footwear is not included within the scope of this standard although the electrical resistance measurement techniques may be applicable.

Covers the protection from electrostatic discharge (ESD) damage of all electronic devices (components, assemblies and sub-assemblies) with voltage sensitivity of not lower than 100 V throughout their entire life. This is from the commencement of manufacture, through product assembly, product use and possible repair until the end of the product life. Is to be read in conjunction with IEC 61340-5-1.

Specifies the general requirements for the protection of electrostatic discharge sensitive devices (ESDS) from electrostatic discharges and fields. It applies only to the manufacture and use of electronic devices. Gives information on how to design, use and control a protected area to ensure that electrostatic sensitive devices, having a withstand threshold voltage of 100 V (human body model) or higher, can be handled with a minimum risk of damage resulting from electrostatic phenomena. Normal precautions given are applicable for areas with clean room types in excess of ISO 14644-1 class 5. Alternative precautions may be required in cleam rooms of ISO 14644-1 class 5 or less if contamination is formed as a result of using the procedures specified in this technical report.

Describes test methods for the determination of the electrical resistance and resistivity of solid materials in the range from 10K Ohm to 1T Ohm used to avoid electrostatic charge accumulation. It takes account of existing IEC/ISO standards and other published information, and gives recommendations and guidelines on the appropriate method.