MIL-HDBK-773 Electrostatic Discharge Protective PackagingThis handbook provides detailed guidance for DoD personnel who use, handle, package, or store Electrostatic Discharge Sensitive ESDS items. It is designed to promote the use of standardized packaging materials as well as promote an understanding of the Electrostatic Discharge ESD threat through all levels of maintenance and supply. This handbook is for guidance only and cannot be cited as a requirement.

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MIL-HDBK-773A

items. Heat-sealing equipment should be located adjacent to the workbench so that the wrist strap remains attached while heat-sealing bags. The tabletop and floor mat ground wires should each go to ground directly (see figure 5, item 6). To prevent the possibility of shocks from high-voltage sources, wrist straps for use at ESD-controlled workstations contain a protective resistor (usually one megohm). Grounding points should be constantly checked for proper grounding.

5.7 Precautions. Observe two basic rules: Handle all ESDS items at a static- safeguarded worksite and transport all ESDS items in static protective containers or packages. Adhere to the following precautions when using an ESD-controlled workstation.

a. When protective apparel is worn it should be frequently checked, especially after cleaning, by scanning personnel with an electrostatic field meter to monitor for damaging ESD voltages.

b. Be sure to attach the wrist strap (mandatory) and heel straps (if used) before handling any ESDS items.

c. Avoid the presence of any non-antistatic or insulative material on or near the worksite such as Styrofoam cups, common plastic or masking tape, common wrapping or barrier materials (for example, bubble pack, or plain poly) cigarette packs, and synthetic materials (for example, rayon, orlon, or plastics of any type) or any other non-job insulating materials.

d. Do not store or use magnetic material near the worksite.

e. Do not perform stretch- or shrink-wrapping operations within the ESD- controlled work area.

f. If more than one ESD-controlled workstation is located in the same area, do not connect the tabletops or floor mats grounding points in series; individually ground each one.

g. Do not use waxes, polishes, or similar material on the floor mat or tabletop. They may deposit an insulating layer of residue reducing or eliminating the effectiveness of the floor mat or tabletop. For the same reason, the use of topical antistatic spray is not recommended on packaging materials.

h. Sweep dust and dirt from the tabletop and floor mat as often as needed to prevent any accumulation which will also insulate them and make them ineffective.