What kind of measuring device do I need for an ESD audit?

Anyone conducting an ESD audit or seeking to verify the effectiveness of an ESD control program will quickly face a crucial question: What kind of measuring devices do I actually need to properly test my ESD protection zone?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. This is because an ESD audit does not focus on a single measurement. Depending on the design of the ESD protection area, the ESD control measures in place, and the established testing procedures, a wide variety of measurements may be required.

Resistances must be measured, electrostatic fields detected, personal grounding systems checked, and, if necessary, ionizers evaluated. In addition, the correct electrodes must be selected, the measurement results evaluated, and comprehensive documentation provided.

Traditionally, this means: multiple measuring devices, various accessories, and different measurement methods. But what specific measurement technology is actually needed?

Traditionally, a single measuring device is often not enough

Typical assessment tasks in an ESD audit may include, among other things:

• Resistance measurements on work surfaces, floors, shelves, or conveyors

• Testing of Personal Grounding Systems

• Evaluation of the Footwear-Surface System

• Walking Test

• Measurement of Electrostatic Fields

• Testing of ESD Clothing

• Inspection of Ionization Systems

Traditionally, these different tasks require different measuring instruments, electrodes, and accessories.

So what kind of measurement technology do I really need?

Depending on the configuration of the EPA, the following devices and components, among others, may be required:

High-Impedance Resistance Tester
for resistance measurements on ESD control elements

Measuring Electrodes
for different test setups

Electric field meter or field mill
for measuring electrostatic fields

Walking Test Measurement Technology
for measuring muscle tension

Measurement Technology for Personal Grounding and Clothing

Charge Plate Monitor
for the inspection of ionization systems

Which components are actually required always depends on the specific EPA and the established ESD control program.

From Multiple Standalone Devices to an ESD Multimeter

This is exactly where modern ESD measurement technology comes into play. Instead of using completely separate devices for each test task, different measurement functions can now be combined into a single system.

With the sparktrap® EPA SafeAssure® At KEINATH Electronic, we have taken exactly this approach. The ESD multimeter combines various areas of ESD measurement technology into a single system and also assists with the evaluation, classification, and documentation of the measured values. This transforms many individual measurement steps into a seamless testing process.

Discover ESD Multimeters