S20.20 references that static generating material must be kept at least 12" from sensitive working items. Taking this information would I be able to use a grounded workbench and mark a box on the benchtop as the “EPA working area” but then allow static generating materials around the bench as long as they are outside of the working area? I’m thinking in terms of a multipurpose workbench that is not normally used with sensitive materials. The bench would have a computer and office supplies which would normally not be allowed in a normal EPA, but when necessary the operator would have the sensitive materials only in the “EPA working area” and would also be grounded. This would not be a regular production scenario where we plan to have a more controlled EPA but due to limited space it isn’t possible to make a specialized station which would normally sit unused the majority of the time. I understand this would require training for the user to understand the requirements to be in compliance with the use of the station.
Josh,
Yes, I think your approach is good. Some things to think about are:
-If non-ESD work is being done without any ESDS items on the workbench you should be fine to do the work anywhere, even the EPA working area as long as you have a good 5S program such that operators remember to put everything away when they are done and before any work is done on ESDS items
-You could measure the electric fields around the perimeter of your EPA working area box to ensure your insulators don’t produce any charges greater than the 125 volts/inch requirement or you could just try to keep all insulators greater than 12" from the box
Josh,
I agree with Andy above. Section 8.3.1 of S20.20 on insulators states “Areas can be designated within the EPA to store static generating items provided the areas do not cause any of the requirements below to be exceeded” This means that if you are going to allow static producing materials in the area, then there needs to be a plan to control those items and minimize the potential charges that may ensue.
Good practice is to try and eliminate as many static producing items as possible. Additionally, if you select to do as you propose, make sure you revise your training (and your ESD Control plan) to reflect exactly how the station is going to be set up and the specific requirements for the use of insulators and their storage.