UNDERSTANDING ESD PROTECTION
1# THE ESD COORDINATOR

What is the role of the person who is responsible for the ESD control program, the ESD coordinator?

Electrostatic discharge (ESD) can cause severe damage to sensitive electronic components. If a company does not take proper precautions against ESD, it can lead to defective products, high repair costs, and even loss of customers. In companies working with ESD-sensitive components, it is advisable to designate a responsible person to ensure proper ESD protection. This person is referred to as the ESD coordinator or ESD program manager.

What does the ESD coordinator do?

The main task of an ESD coordinator is to develop, maintain, and monitor the company’s ESD protection system. This means that, tailored to the corporate environment, the coordinator:

• ✅ Establishes and documents rules – defines how employees should handle sensitive components.
• ✅ Conducts inspections – regularly assesses whether the ESD protection is functioning properly.
• ✅ Provides training – helps colleagues understand why ESD protection is important and how to follow proper procedures.
• ✅ Uses measuring equipment – checks ESD protective devices such as grounded work surfaces, wrist straps, or ESD-protected footwear.
• ✅ Maintains communication with management – reports on the current situation and proposes improvements to the ESD protection system.

 

What makes a good ESD coordinator?

The role of the ESD coordinator requires proficiency. It is essential that they are familiar with ESD-related standards and the company’s internal processes. They should also participate in further training to stay up to date with the latest technologies and procedures. In addition, they need the support of management to ensure access to the necessary tools and authority.

Why is the ESD control program important?

If ESD protection is inadequate, electronic devices and components may suffer invisible damage that only causes problems later. This can increase the scrap rate, the number of warranty repairs, and overall costs. However, a well-functioning ESD program can be a worthwhile long-term investment by reducing failures and ensuring the reliability of products.

 

Therefore, the role of the ESD coordinator within a company is to ensure that sensitive electronic components are protected and that the organization avoids issues caused by electrostatic discharge.

Gábor Lovász, Ph.D.

Technical information  The content of this article was created with the assistance of artificial intelligence. This technology helped in translation and shaping, rephrasing, and organizing the original text to enhance readability and help clarity.

Reference literature

1. IEC 61340-5-1:2024 Electrostatics – Part 5-1: Protection of electronic devices from electrostatic phenomena – General requirements, 2024, page 10 (sections 5.1.1 and 5.1.2)
2. IEC TR 61340-5-2:2018 Electrostatics – Part 5-2: Protection of electronic devices from electrostatic phenomena – User guide, 2018, page 10 (sections 5.1.1 and 5.1.2)