NOT MEASUREMENT

SENSITIVE

National Aeronautics and This document has been CANCELLED NASA-STD-8739.7

Space Administration Click Here to see the Cancellation Notice DECEMBER 1997

PREVIOUS VERSION PUBLISHED AS NHB 5300.4(3L)

NOTE: Cancelled or superseded standards may remain valid on contracts after the date of the
standard’s cancellation or supersession – always check the contract to determine the applicability
of a specific standard.

ELECTROSTATIC
DISCHARGE CONTROL
(EXCLUDING ELECTRICALLY INITIATED
EXPLOSIVE DEVICES)

NASA TECHNICAL STANDARD

 NASA-STD-8739.7
December 1997

FOREWORD

Effective Date: December 15, 1997

In order to maintain the high standards of the NASA Electrostatic Discharge (ESD)
programs, this publication:

a. Prescribes NASA's requirements for ESD avoidance and control.

b. Describes basic considerations necessary to ensure static free work areas.

c. Establishes the supplier's responsibility to train and certify personnel.

d. Establishes the supplier's responsibility for documentation of procedures

to be used for NASA work, including supplier innovations, special processes, and
changes in technology.

NOTE: FOR THE PURPOSE OF THIS DOCUMENT, THE TERM SUPPLIER

SHALL BE DEFINED AS IN-HOUSE NASA, NASA CONTRACTORS AND
SUBTIER CONTRACTORS.

NASA Installations shall:

a. Invoke the requirements of this publication as part of the specifications or

statement of work in procurements involving the handling of ESD sensitive (ESDS)
parts or assemblies. Appendix A is a requirement of this publication.

b. Existing contracts that specify another ESD program may continue to

invoke those requirements. This publication should be considered for all applications.

c. For all new procurements, the latest revision of this publication, including
page changes, shall be specified in the contract if no other NASA procuring
Installation-approved ESD control programs exist. (For example, ESD control
programs to MIL-STD-1686).

d. Assure that NASA suppliers invoke the requirements of this publication

in their subcontracts, purchase orders, and subtler suppliers.

e. Furnish copies of this publication, in the quantities required, to NASA

contractors, subcontractors, and subtler suppliers.

f. Utilize the provisions of this publication for in-house operations and for
training and certification of in-house personnel.

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 NASA-STD-8739.7
December 1997
Questions concerning application of this publication to specific procurements shall be
referred to the procuring NASA Installation or its designated representative.

This Standard cancels NHB 5300.4(3L), "Electrostatic Discharge Control (Excluding

Electrically Initiated Devices)."

Comments and suggestions for improvement of this handbook may be submitted using the
form "NASA Handbook Improvement Proposal." A copy of this form is included at the
end of the handbook.

This publication shall not be rewritten or reissued in any other form.

This book is issued in loose-leaf form and will be revised by page changes.

Frederick D. Gregory

Associate Administrator for

Safety and Mission Assurance

DISTRIBUTION:

SDL1 (SIQ)

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 NASA-STD-8739.7
December 1997
NASA TECHNICAL STANDARDS FOR SPACE FLIGHT AND MISSION
CRITICAL GROUND SUPPORT HARDWARE

NASA Technical Standards can be found on the World Wide Web at URL address
http://www.hq.nasa,gov/office/codeq/qdoc.pdf

Title Number

Management of Government Quality Assurance Functions for NASA NHB 5300.4(2B-2)

Contracts

Soldered Electrical Connections NASA-STD-8739.3

Crimping, Interconnecting Cables, Harnesses, and Wiring NASA-STD-8739.4

Workmanship Standard for Staking and Conformal Coating of Printed NAS 5300.4(3J-1)
Wiring Boards and Electronic Assemblies

Printed Wiring Boards IPC-0-275

Rigid Printed Wiring Boards and Assemblies IPC-RS-6011

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December 1997

CONTENTS

PARAGRAPH PAGE

FOREWORD..................................................................................................... i

TABLE OF CONTENTS................................................................................. iv

LIST OF FIGURES ......................................................................................... vi

LIST OF TABLES........................................................................................... vi

LIST OF APPENDICES.................................................................................. vi

1. SCOPE .......................................................................................................... 1-1

1.1 Purpose ............................................................................................... 1-1
1.2 Applicability......................................................................................... 1-1

2. APPLICABLE DOCUMENTS ...................................................................... 2-1

2.1 Applicable Specifications ..................................................................... 2-1
2.2 Other Documents................................................................................. 2-1

3. DEFINITIONS AND ACRONYMS .............................................................. 3-1

3.1 Definitions ........................................................................................... 3-1
3.2 Acronyms ............................................................................................ 3-3

4. GENERAL .................................................................................................... 4-1

4.1 General ................................................................................................ 4-1
4.2 Documentation .................................................................................... 4-1
4.3 Approval of Departures from this Standard .......................................... 4-1
4.4 Rework................................................................................................ 4-1

5. ESD CONTROL PROGRAM........................................................................ 5-1

5.1 General ................................................................................................ 5-1
5.2 ESD Control Program Requirements.................................................... 5-1
5.3 Design Reviews ................................................................................... 5-2
5.4 Surveys and Inspections ....................................................................... 5-2

6. TRAINING AND CERTIFICATION PROGRAM ........................................ 6-1

6.1 General ................................................................................................ 6-1
6.2 Certification Levels .............................................................................. 6-1
6.3 Training Program Requirements........................................................... 6-2
6.4 Documentation .................................................................................... 6-3
6.5 Maintenance of Certification Status...................................................... 6-3
6.6 Training Resources .............................................................................. 6-4

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 NASA-STD-8739.7
December 1997
CONTENTS - CONT.

7. ESD CONTROL REQUIREMENTS FOR FACILITIES ............................... 7-1

7.1 General ................................................................................................ 7-1
7.2 Protected Work Environment............................................................... 7-1
7.3 Protective Packaging............................................................................ 7-6
7.4 Temperature Chambers and Cooling Agents......................................... 7-7
7.5 Cleaning and Cleaning Agents.............................................................. 7-7
7.6 Electrostatic Survey Meters, Voltmeters, and Monitors........................ 7-7
7.7 Clothing Requirements......................................................................... 7-8

8. OPERATING REQUIREMENTS ................................................................. 8-1

8.1 Requirements for Handling ESDS Items............................................... 8-1
8.2 Receiving, Internal Handling, and Shipping .......................................... 8-1
8.3 Equipment Level - Test and Maintenance............................................. 8-1
8.4 Equipment Level Installation................................................................ 8-2
8.5 Identification and Marking ................................................................... 8-2

9: QUALITY ASSURANCE PROVISIONS...................................................... 9-1

9.1 General ................................................................................................ 9-1
9.2 Quality Assurance ................................................................................ 9-1

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 NASA-STD-8739.7
December 1997

LIST OF FIGURES

Figure 7-1 Typical ESD Grounded Workbench............................................................... 7-3

Figure 7-2 Main Service Box.......................................................................................... 7-5
Figure 8-1 Sensitive Electronic Device Caution Symbols ................................................ 8-3

LIST OF TABLES

Table 7-1 ESD Control Program Verification Schedule & Required Measurements ....... 7-2

LIST OF APPENDICES

APPENDIX A NASA Technical Standard Improvement Proposal ..........................................A-1

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CHAPTER 1 - SCOPE
1.1 Purpose

1. This publication sets forth ESD control requirements for items that are ESD
Sensitive (ESDS) (excluding electrically initiated explosive devices).

2. Special requirements may exist that will not be covered by or will not be in
conformance with requirements of this publication. Engineering documentation shall
contain the detail for these requirements, and shall take precedence over conflicting
portions of this publication when they have been approved in writing by the procuring
NASA Installation.

1.2 Applicability

This publication is applicable to all NASA programs involving ESDS components or

assemblies, and wherever invoked contractually. These measures shall be implemented
during all phases of receiving, inspection, assembly, testing, repair, storage, and packaging
for shipping of all items designated as ESDS. The measures shall apply but not be limited
to flight hardware, mission-support equipment and elements thereof.

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December 1997

CHAPTER 2 - APPLICABLE DOCUMENTS

2.1 Applicable Specifications

1. Copies of the following documents required in connection with a specific

procurement may be obtained from the procuring NASA Center or as directed by the
contracting officer. Unless otherwise specified, the issue and/or revision in effect on the
date of invitation for bids or request for proposal shall apply to the extent specified herein.

MILITARY SPECIFICATIONS:

MIL-E-17555 Electronic and Electrical Equipment Accessories,

Provisioned Items (Repair Parts), Packaging of

MILITARY STANDARDS:

MIL STD-129 Marking for Shipment and Storage

INDUSTRY SPECIFICATIONS:

EIA RS 471-80 Symbols and Labels for Electrostatic Sensitive Devices

2.2 Related Documents.

1. The following are documents are related to the subject of ESD control. Note
that these are not applicable documents, but are identified for reference purposes.

MILITARY STANDARDS

MIL-STD-1686A Electrostatic Discharge Control Program for Protection

of Electrical and Electronic Parts, Assemblies and
Equipment (Excluding Electrically Initiated Explosive
Devices).

MILITARY HANDBOOKS

MIL-HDBK-263 Electrostatic Discharge Control Handbook for Protection

of Electrical and Electronic Parts, Assemblies and
Equipment

INDUSTRY SPECIFICATIONS

EIA-541 Packaging Material Standards for ESD Sensitive Items

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CHAPTER 3 - DEFINITIONS AND ACRONYMS

3.1 Definitions

The following definitions apply to terms used in this standard.

Assembly. A functional subdivision of a component, consisting of parts or subassemblies which

perform functions necessary for the operation of the component as a whole. Examples: regulator
assembly, power amplifier assembly, gyro assembly, etc.

Certification. The act of verifying and documenting that personnel have completed required
training, demonstrated specified proficiency, and have met specified requirements.

Component. A functional subdivision of a system, generally a self-contained combination of

assemblies performing a function necessary for the system's operation. Examples: power supply,
transmitter, gyro package, etc.

Contractor. The individual(s) or concern(s) who enter into a prime contract with the
Government.

Conductive Material. ESD-protective material having a surface resistivity of 10 ohms per square
maximum.

Deviation. A specific authorization, granted before the fact, to depart from a particular
requirement of specification or related document.

Electrostatic Discharge (ESD). A transfer of electrostatic charge between bodies at different

electrostatic potentials caused by direct contact or induced by an electrostatic field.

ESD-Protective Material. Material capable of one or more of the following characteristics:

limiting the generation of static electricity; safely dissipating electrostatic charges over its surface
or volume; or providing shielding from ESD spark discharge or electrostatic fields.

ESD-Protective Packaging. Packaging with ESD-protective materials to prevent damage to

ESDS items.

ESD Sensitive (ESDS) Items. Electrical and electronic parts, assemblies and equipment that are
sensitive to ESD voltages.

Electrostatic Field. A voltage gradient between an electrostatically charged surface and another
surface of a different electrostatic potential.

Ground. A mass such as earth, a ship, or a vehicle hull, capable of supplying or accepting a large
electrical charge.

Hard Ground. A connection to earth ground either directly or through low impedance.
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 NASA-STD-8739.7
December 1997

Kit. A prepared package of parts with instructions for assembly and/or wiring a component or
chassis.

Part. An element of a component, assembly, or subassembly which is not normally subject to

further subdivision or disassembly without destruction of designed use.

Protected Area. An area which is constructed and equipped with the necessary ESD-protective
materials and equipment to limit ESD voltage below the sensitivity level of ESDS items handled
therein.

Qualification. The act of verifying and documenting that facilities, equipment, processes and
materials comply with the requirements specified in this document.

Soft Ground. A connection to ground through an impedance sufficiently high to limit current
flow to safe levels for personnel (normally 5 milliamperes). Impedance needed for a soft ground is
dependent upon the voltage levels which could be contacted by personnel near the ground.

Static Dissipative Materials. ESD-protective materials having surface resistivities greater than
5 12
10 but not greater than 10 ohms per square.

Subcontractor. The individual(s) or concern(s) who enter into a purchase agreement under a
Government prime contract.

Supplier. In-house NASA, NASA contractors, and subtier contractors.

Surface Resistivity. The surface resistivity is an inverse measure of the conductivity of a material
and equal to the ratio of the potential gradient to the surface, where the potential gradient is
measured in the direction of current flow in the material.

NOTE: SURFACE RESISTIVITY OF A MATERIAL IS NUMERICALLY EQUAL TO

THE SURFACE RESISTANCE BETWEEN TWO ELECTRODES FORMING
OPPOSITE SIDES OF A SQUARE. THE SIZE OF THE SQUARE IS
IMMATERIAL. SURFACE RESISTIVITY APPLIES TO BOTH SURFACE AND
VOLUME CONDUCTIVE MATERIALS AND HAS THE VALUE OF OHMS
PER SQUARE.

System. A system is a functional subdivision of a spacecraft generally composed of two or more

components designed to perform an operation. An instrument is considered a system.

Triboelectric. Pertaining to electricity generated by friction.

Waiver. Granted use, or acceptance, of an article that does not meet specified requirements.

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3.2 Acronyms

The following acronyms apply to terms used in this standard:

AC Alternating Current
EIA Electronic Industries Association
ESD Electrostatic Discharge
ESDS Electrostatic Discharge Sensitive
GSFC Goddard Space Flight Center
IPC Institute for Interconnecting and Packaging Electronic Circuits
JPL Jet Propulsion Laboratory
NAS NASA Assurance Standard
NASA National Aeronautics and Space Administration
NHB NASA Handbook
QA Quality Assurance
QS Safety and Risk Management Division of the
NASA Office of Safety and Mission Assurance
RH Relative Humidity
RMS Root Mean Square

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CHAPTER 4 - GENERAL

4.1 General

1. NASA personnel will advise and assist suppliers and authorized personnel in the
proper and effective implementation of the provisions of this publication.

2. When related requirements or changes in requirements are specified, NASA quality

assurance personnel will ensure that the authorized agent delegated to inspect at the supplier's site
has received full instructions, so that the area will meet the actual contract requirements.

3. When the supplier proposes to use ESD control techniques not covered by this
publication, the supplier shall document the details of the proposed techniques and inspection, and
provide appropriate test data. This documentation shall be approved by the procuring NASA
Installation prior to use.

4. The prime contractor is responsible for flow down of the requirements herein to their
subtler suppliers as required.

4.2 Documentation

1. The supplier shall document the procedures proposed to incorporate the requirements
of this publication into the ESD control program involved in the contract or purchase order.

2. Documents required herein shall be submitted to the procuring NASA Center or its
designated representative as required by the contract or purchase order. Applicable supplier ESD
control program documents, or portions thereof, accepted on other NASA contracts shall be
included to avoid duplication of effort.

4.3 Approval of Departures from this Standard

1. This publication requires:

a. Written approval from the NASA contracting officer for technical changes,
deviations or waivers initiated by the supplier.

b. All deviation and waiver requests shall be supported by objective evidence

and data substantiating that quality and reliability of the hardware will not be compromised.

2. The supplier is responsible for assuring that any departures from this publication
are evaluated by, coordinated with, and submitted to the procuring NASA Installation.

3. For in-house NASA projects, this publication requires the written equivalent of
deviation and waiver requests, approved by the in-house NASA project management, for
deviation from the provisions herein.

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CHAPTER 5 - ESD CONTROL PROGRAM

5.1 General

1. The supplier shall establish, implement, and document an ESD control program in
accordance with the requirements of this publication, to provide continuous protection for ESDS
parts, assemblies, and equipment.

a. The applicable control program functions shall also be applied to subcontractors,

suppliers and vendors to provide continuous protection for ESDS parts, assemblies and
equipment.

b. Assemblies, components and equipment shall be designed to provide ESD

protection for the sensitivity level of the most sensitive ESDS parts chosen for the design. The
minimum protection for each ESDS design shall be as specified by the engineering documentation
or 2000 volts for assemblies and 4000 volts for components and equipment.

5.2 ESD Control Program Requirements

1. The supplier's ESD control procedures shall be established to verify conformance to

this Handbook and made available to applicable work areas. As a minimum, the procedures shall
be implemented to include the following ESD control program requirements:

a. Conformance of protected areas and items listed in Table 7-1 to requirements set
forth in this document. Verify the adequacy of these areas prior to their use.

b. Use of protective personnel clothing and proper personnel grounding at all

necessary points where ESDS items will be handled.

c. Establishment and operation of a training program to ensure that all personnel

handling ESDS items have received the necessary training, and have been certified/recertified to
the appropriate working level as specified in paragraph 6.2.

d. Performance of audits and inspections to ensure the integrity of the ESD-protected

areas and equipment in accordance with requirements listed in Table 7-1.

e. Inspection of documentation for ESD markings, precautions and handling

procedures as applicable.

f. Proper ESD identification on ESDS items.

g. Inclusion of ESD requirements on purchasing documentation.

h. Handling of ESDS items only at static free and verified protected areas.

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 NASA-STD-8739.7
December 1997
i. Description of field operations and precautionary procedures, when applicable, to
prevent ESD damage.

j. Maintenance of auditable records and documentation for all measurements

required by this Handbook listed in Table 7-1.

k. Prepare and maintain internal records of each verification and audit to ensure
compliance with the ESD control program plan.

l. Internal reports shall be provided to management with results and

recommendations from audits specified herein. Deficiencies noted during audits or verifications
shall cause initiation of corrective action.

m. Materials approved for use within ESD-protected areas shall be documented in an

ESD-protective approved materials list.

5.3 Design reviews

1. During equipment design reviews, ESD control program plans shall be submitted by
the supplier to the procuring NASA Installation for review to verify conformance to the
requirements of this Standard.

5.4 Surveys and Inspections

1. Surveys shall be performed by the supplier to assess the adequacy of the following
areas:
a. ESD control program plan implementation.

b. General design, construction and maintenance requirements for protected areas.

c. Protective procedures used to control handling and testing of ESDS parts,

assemblies, components and equipment.

d. Methods and procedures for monitoring the continued effectiveness of protected

areas.

e. Methods and procedures for performing audits and inspections of the ESD control
program.

f. Training and certification program.

g. Packaging and storage of ESD parts, assemblies, and equipment.

h. Correction of deficiencies.

i. Precautionary procedures implemented during field operations when ESDS items

are present.
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 NASA-STD-8739.7
December 1997

j. Verify certification of personnel who work on ESDS items

k. Verify limited access to ESD-protected areas

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 NASA-STD-8739.7
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CHAPTER 6 - TRAINING AND CERTIFICATION PROGRAM

6.1 General

1. The supplier is responsible for maintaining a documented training program that meets
the requirements of this Handbook.

2. The supplier shall assure that all personnel who perform or supervise any of the
following functions, are familiar with the ESD control techniques, other requirements of this
document, and other pertinent ESD control requirements of the contract: design, production,
inspection, test, storage, procurement, shipping, receiving, handling, installation, maintenance, and
repair. The supplier shall implement and document a training program which provides the
necessary training of personnel pertinent to their responsibilities in performance of the contract
requirements. The supplier is responsible for certifying and maintaining the certification of each
individual who is involved in ESD control.

3. All personnel listed in Paragraph 6.0.b, including instructors, shall be qualified to

fulfill all requirements of this Handbook involved in their assigned tasks. Demonstration of
proficiency and understanding of the requirements is a requisite for certification and
recertification. Evidence of certification status shall be maintained in the work area.

6.2 Certification Levels

1. Certification of supplier personnel shall be provided by the supplier based on

successful completion of the approved training program.

a. Program Monitor or Design/Engineering Personnel. This training is for those

who play a major role in ESD damage prevention, i.e., ESD program officers, QA representatives,
area supervisors, designers and engineers. The training shall encompass the following subject
areas, at minimum:

(1) ESD Control Program.

(2) Principles/control methods of static electricity.

(3) Identification of ESDS items.

(4) Protective materials and equipment.

(5) Protected areas and work stations.

(6) Monitoring of the work place.

(7) Handling ESDS items.

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 NASA-STD-8739.7
December 1997
(8) Packaging, marking and shipping of ESDS items.

b. Management Level. Training at this level is intended to provide a working

knowledge of ESD hazards for management personnel. The training shall encompass the
following subject areas, at minimum:

(1) ESD control program organization and requirements.

(2) Principles of static electricity and methods of controlling damage from ESD.

c. Operator Level. This training is intended for technical personnel performing work
on or with ESDS items, such as assembly, soldering, conformal coating, cleaning, inspections,
testing, packaging, and shipping. The training shall encompass the following subject areas, at
minimum:

(1) Principles of ESD and control methods.

(2) Identification of ESDS items.

(3) Protective material and equipment.

(4) Protected areas and work stations.

(5) Handling ESDS items

(6) Marking and protective packaging.

d. Other Facility Personnel. Training of all other facility personnel shall be tailored
to the particular assignment of the individual.

6.3 Training Program Requirements

1. The supplier training program documentation shall be submitted to the procuring

NASA Installation. A NASA Generic Training Plan from the NASA Training Centers is available
for use as a guideline.

2. The training program shall:

a. Identify the criteria for qualification and certification of instructors, program

monitor level managers, operators and other facility personnel.

b. Document the methods and procedures proposed to fulfill the requirements of this
Handbook.

c. Utilize applicable illustrations in this Handbook, supplemented as necessary, for

visual standards. Standards of unacceptable conditions may also be used for clarification or
comparison.
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6.4 Documentation

1. The documentation shall describe the training and certification program proposed to
satisfy the requirements herein. This documentation shall include, but not be limited to, the
following, as applicable:

a. Qualification(s) of instructors.

b. Procedures for training, including who will be trained and for what purpose, (e.g.,
management, operators, inspectors).

c. Lesson plan(s)/student Handbooks.

d. Hours of instruction.

e. Procedures for certification and recertification.

f. Procedures for recording of training, recertification, and methods of

identifying/recalling trained personnel.

g. Certification criteria

h. Record maintenance.

2. Records of training and certification shall become part of the supplier's quality data
and shall be retained for a minimum of 5 years.

3. Evidence of certification status including limitations shall be available in the work area

6.5 Maintenance of Certification Status

1. Maintenance of certification for instructors, program monitors, managers, operators

and other levels requires continuous proficiency.

2. Recertification of personnel shall include successful completion of retraining.

3. Recertification shall be required when:

a. Proficiency requirements herein are not met.

b. New ESD control techniques have been approved that require different skills.

c. Certificate holder changes employment.

d. Work period interruption of greater than 6 months occurs.

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e. Two years have elapsed since last certification.

4. Certification shall be revoked when:

a. Certificate holder fails recertification.

b. Employment is terminated.

c. Supplier training program fails to meet requirements set forth herein or set forth
otherwise in the contract.

6.5 Training Resources

1. Instructor training is available at either the Goddard Space Flight Center (GSFC) or
Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL). The NASA Generic Training Plan is also available and may be
obtained by contacting the following sources.

GSFC (301)731-8632
Training Center FAX (301)731-8603
Code 300.1
Greenbelt, MD 20771

JPL (818)354-4165
Training Center FAX(818)393-0090
MS83-204
4800 Oak Grove Drive
Pasadena, CA 91109

2. Suppliers may train personnel in-house for certification or recertification utilizing an

approved training program, or arrange for this training at or by one of the NASA conducted
schools.

3. Reimbursable cost may be charged (or levied). Contact either training center for
additional information.

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CHAPTER 7 - ESD CONTROL REQUIREMENTS FOR FACILITIES

7.1 General

1. This chapter contains requirements specific to ESD-protected facilities including work

areas, equipment, tools and materials.

2. The effectiveness of ESD protection in eliminating and/or dissipating electrostatic

charges shall be demonstrated by inspection of facilities in accordance with the requirements
noted in Table 7-1 and specific requirements found throughout this chapter.

3. All supplier facilities where ESDS hardware is handled shall be qualified by the
procuring activity. The following requirements shall be reviewed and approved by the procuring
activity prior to qualification of the supplier's facility and ESD control program.

a. ESD program procedures.

b. Training and certification program.

c. Records of control program verifications.

d. Facility survey.

7.2 Protected Work Environment

1. Identification and Access - ESD Areas. The ESD-protected area, where ESDS
items are to be processed, shall be clearly identified by prominently placed signs. Access to such
areas shall be limited to trained and equipped personnel. A partition, rope guard, or similar means
shall be set up to assist in prohibiting unauthorized and untrained personnel from entering the
ESD-protected area. All other personnel shall be escorted and be equipped with standard
protective clothing, as required.

2. Prohibited Materials and Activities. The area shall be maintained in a clean and
orderly condition. Smoking, eating and drinking in ESD-protected areas shall not be permitted.
Materials unessential to the fabrication area are also prohibited at the work station.

3. ESD-Protective Work Surfaces.

a. All work surfaces in an ESD-protected area shall be static dissipative and

electrically connected to the common point ground (see Figure 7-1).

5
b. Homogeneous materials shall have surface resistivity in the range of 10
9
to 10 ohms/square. Non-homogeneous materials should have comparable static
dissipative properties. A low resistance ground connection is recommended. However, if
safety codes and/or other authorities require inclusion of a series resistor, it is permitted.

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 NASA-STD-8739.7
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TABLE 7-1 ESD Control Program Verification Schedule and Required
Measurements

NOTE 1: All of the items listed below shall require the maintenance of records for
verification prior to use.

NOTE 2: All items that are not in compliance with this document shall be
refurbished or replaced and/or rendered unusable until corrective actions
are complete.

ITEM PARAGRAPH VERIFICATION

REFERENCE INTERVALS
Continuous Daily Weekly Monthly Semi- Annual
annual
Work Surface Resistivity 7.2-3b X
Work Surface Grounding 7.2-3b X
Work Surface Solvent 7.2-3d X
Resistance
Work Surface Static 7.2-3a X
Charge Dissipation
Conductive Floor 7.2-4c X
Resistivity
Wrist Strap Release Force 7.2-5a(2) X
Wrist Strap Resistance 7.2-5a(3) X
Foot Grounding Device 7.2-5b X
Integrity
1 7.2-6a X
Equipment and Facility
Grounding
1 7.2-6a(1) X
Stool and Chair
Grounding
Humidfication (RH) 7.2-7 X
1 7.2-6b X
Cart, Wagon, and Tram
Grounding
1 7.2-8a X
Nuclear ionizer
1 7.2-8b X
Corona Discharge ionizer
Soldering Iron Tip to 7.2-9b X
Ground
Electrostatic 7.6 X
Monitor
Operation
1
These items require that proof of verification was performed by some form of identification
(i.e., label, tab or sticker)

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 NASA-STD-8739.7
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NOTE: WORK SURFACES SHOULD BE SOFT GROUNDED TO ELIMINATE THE

SAFETY HAZARD OF TOUCHING A HIGH VOLTAGE CIRCUIT WITH
ONE HAND AND A HARD GROUND WITH THE OTHER. A WORK
SURFACE WHICH IS CONNECTED TO HARD GROUND REQUIRES THAT
THE ELECTRICAL POWER LINE BE PROTECTED WITH A GROUND
FAULT CIRCUIT INTERRUPTER.

Figure 7-1. Typical ESD Grounded Work Bench

c. The protective work surface shall be sufficiently large to encourage the resting of
common hand tools on the protective surface rather than on an adjacent nonprotected surface.

d. The protective work surface shall not release particle contaminants and shall resist
attack by common solvents or cleaners. Solvent resistance shall be determined during initial
verification by exposing test specimens to 1-hour exposure to each of the solvents that can be
expected to be used at the work station.

CAUTION: SOME SOLVENTS ARE HAZARDOUS AND VOLATILE AND SHALL BE

USED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE MANUFACTURER'S GUIDELINES.

4. ESD-Protective Floor Coverings.

a. Conductive floors and/or grounded conductive floor mats are mandatory in areas
where personnel are not wearing wrist straps. Under these conditions, the use of leg straps, heel
straps or conductive shoes is mandatory.

b. Conductive floors or mats shall be kept free of dust, dirt and other contaminants.

c. After each cleaning, conductive floor resistivity shall be verified in accordance with
supplier's ESD program documentation and the results shall be recorded. The use of waxes and
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December 1997
the buffing of conductive floors shall be prohibited. A notice stating these restrictions shall be
prominently displayed in the areas having conductive floors.

d. Use of carpeting in an ESD-protected area is prohibited. This includes carpeting

advertised as "conductive" or "static-eliminating."

5. Personnel Grounding Devices. Personnel grounding devices shall be supplied to all

personnel working with or handling ESDS items to prevent the accumulation of dangerous
electrostatic charge levels. A grounding device shall be worn by all personnel coming within 1
meter (3.3 feet) of any ESDS items.

The types of approved grounding devices are as follows:

a. Wrist Straps. The wrist strap is composed of four major elements:

(1) Cuff. The design of the wrist strap cuff shall ensure conductive contact with
the wearer's skin. Metallic cuffs are preferred over plastics. Bead type chains are prohibited.

(2) Lead. For operator safety, the wrist strap release force of the cuff and the lead
shall occur with at least 8.9 Newtons (2 pounds) but not more than 22.2 Newtons (5 pounds) of
force.

(3) Safety Resistor. All wrist straps shall contain an integral current-limiting
safety resistor (1 meg ohm + 20%). The preferred location of the safety resistor is at the cuff end
rather than the ground termination end of the lead.

(4) Ground Termination. The wrist strap ground termination shall ensure a
positive and durable connection between the lead and the soft ground. All wrist straps within a
protective area must utilize a common type of termination.

b. Foot Grounding Devices. Leg, toe or heel straps or conductive shoes worn in
conjunction with a conductive floor and/or conductive floor mats, are acceptable alternatives to a
wrist strap in those situations where the operator needs to be mobile and the use of a wrist strap is
impractical or unsafe. The integrity of foot grounding devices shall be verified in the same manner
as wrist straps.

NOTE: FOOT GROUNDING DEVICES SHOULD BE KEPT CLEAN SO THAT

CONTAMINANTS DO NOT INHIBIT THEIR CONDUCTIVE INTERFACE WITH
THE FLOOR.

6. Equipment and Facilities Grounding.

a. The preferred practice is to use the third wire AC line ground for grounding all
items at the ESD-protected work station. When a separate grounding line is present or used in
addition to the equipment ground, it should be bonded to the equipment ground at each ESD-
protected work station to minimize the difference in potential. The resistance of the conductor
from the common point ground to the equipment ground (AC ground) should not be greater than
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December 1997
1.0 ohm. The impedance from the work station common point ground to the neutral bond at the
main service box should not be greater than 2.0 ohms. See Figure 7-2.

Figure 7-2. Main Service Box

(1) To establish grounding of stools and chairs, it is recommended that they be

constructed of conductive material and the cover material fabricated from static dissipative
materials. Where chairs and stools are required to be grounded and approved conductive flooring
is utilized, positive electrical contact between the floor and metallic structure of the chair or stool
is required.

b. Where cart, wagons or trams are required to be grounded and approved

conductive floors are utilized, positive electrical contact must be made between the floor and
conductive structure of the cart, wagon or tram. If the floor is non-conductive, the vehicle will be
grounded before ESDS items are loaded or removed from the vehicle.

7. Humidification. The relative humidity shall be maintained in ESD-protected work

areas at 30% to 70%. At levels below 30%, additional precautions shall be employed (e.g., air
ionizers, humidifiers). If other precautionary methods are not available, work shall be halted until
the required humidity level is obtained.

NOTE: SURFACE RESISTIVITY CHANGES EXPONENTIALLY WITH HUMIDITY

CHANGES. THEREFORE, RELATIVE HUMIDITY LEVELS MAINTAINED
BETWEEN 40% AND 60% ARE RECOMMENDED.

8. Air Ionizers. Air ionizers are recommended where grounding is impractical. The
following types of air ionizers are recommended for use:

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December 1997
a. Nuclear ionizer

b. Corona discharge ionizer.

CAUTION: THE USE OF ANY TYPE OF AIR IONIZER IS PROHIBITED IN THE

PRESENCE OF HIGH-VOLTAGE OR RF SENSITIVE EQUIPMENT TO
AVOID BREAKDOWN IN THE PRESENCE OF IONIZED AIR.

9. Hand Tools, Equipment and Fixtures.

a. a Uninsulated metal hand tools such as pliers, cutters, tweezers and wire strippers
are preferred in ESD-protected areas. Hand tools shall be kept on the grounded work surface
when not in use. Only antistatic solder extractors made of metal, or having a metallized plastic
barrel and tip, shall be used in an ESD-protected area

b. Electrical tools used in ESD-protected areas shall have a three-wire grounded

power cord or be double insulated. The area making contact with the workpiece shall be
grounded (e.g., solder iron tip). When measured from the work piece contact point to ground, the
resistance shall not exceed 2.0 ohms and the potential difference shall not exceed 2 millivolts
RMS using methods which are indicated in supplier's process documentation.

7.3 Protective Packaging

1. General. Electrostatic protective packaging requires both the prevention of charge

generation (e.g., triboelectric contact and separating) end protection from strong electrostatic
12
fields. The surface resistivity of any material should not exceed 10 ohm/square. Protective
packaging is considered ESD protective based on the following application methods.

2. Protective Bags and Pouches.

a. Materials used in protective bags and pouches shall satisfy the resistivity
requirements to avoid triboelectric charge buildup.

b. Bags and pouches used for electrostatic shielding shall be constructed from a
single folded piece of material. Two-piece construction is prohibited. If bags or pouches are not
transparent to allow identification of contents without removal, a label shall be placed on the
outside of the bag or pouch that identifies its contents.

3. Magazines, Chutes and Diptubes.

a. Non-metallic conductive and static dissipative magazines, chutes and diptubes shall
be used for shipping integrated circuits.

b. Neither static dissipative impregnated nor topically treated plastics provide

electrostatic shielding. Both types shall be enclosed in an outer container which will provide such
protection during shipping.

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December 1997

4. Tote Boxes and Other Holders. Tote boxes shall be made of conductive or static
dissipative material. All tote boxes shall be fitted with covers of the same conductivity as the
bottom sections. The fit of this cover shall be such as to assure the conductivity across this
interface.

7.4 Temperature Chambers and Cooling Agents

1. Gas flow is a significant generator of electrostatic charges. Precautions must be taken

when gas flow is utilized in the area of ESDS items.

2. Cold chambers shall have the conductive baffles and shelves within the chamber
grounded. The ESDS items shall be contained within or mounted on conductive material.

3. When pressurized cryogenic cooling agents are used for localized cooling, as in
troubleshooting, they shall be electrostatically safe.

4. The stability of ESD-protective materials, which are used in temperature chambers,

should be suitable for the test temperature and humidity ranges.

7.5 Cleaning and Cleaning Agents

1. Cleaning agents and methods used on ESD-protective items (e.g., work surfaces and
floor coverings) shall not reduce the effectiveness of these items. They shall not cause leaching or
leave insulating residues.

2. In addition to other required properties (e.g. solvency) cleaning agents used on ESDS
items shall be chosen for low electrostatic charging propensity.

3. Only natural fiber materials shall be used for cleaning ESDS items. Synthetic materials
are prohibited.

7.6 Electrostatic Survey Meters, Voltmeters and Monitors

1. Electrostatic survey meters shall be used to detect the presence of electrostatic

charges. Static survey meters shall be of the type which read the electrostatic charge on a surface
area without requiring contact. Such instruments shall be capable of measuring the voltage on a
sample not more than 8 inches in diameter with a minimum resolution of 100 volts and a range of
at least 1 Kilovolt (Kv).

2. The use of electrostatic monitors designed to actuate an alarm when an electrostatic

field reaches a preset level, is recommended in an ESD-protected area.

3. A wrist strap tester shall be available in all areas where ESDS items are handled.
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December 1997

7.7 Clothing Requirements

Non-static generating clothing shall be worn in ESD-protected areas or static dissipative smocks
shall be worn as an outer garment. Finger cots and gloves, when worn in an ESD-protected area,
shall be made of static dissipative materials.

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CHAPTER 8 - OPERATING REQUIREMENTS

8.1 Requirements for Handling ESDS Items

1. ESDS items shall be handled only in an ESD-protected area. Outside ESD-protected

areas, ESDS items shall be enclosed in ESD-protective packaging.

2. Paperwork accompanying an ESDS item (e.g., QA records, routings, instructions)

shall be contained in static dissipative bags or envelopes. Paperwork shall not come in physical
contact with an ESDS item.

3. Shunts, such as bars, clips, or conductive covering, shall be used to protect an ESDS
item which is not being tested or worked on.

4. All containers, tools, test equipment, and fixtures used in ESD-protected areas shall be
grounded before and during use. A common ground shall be established between an ESDS item
and any test equipment before connecting or disconnecting test cables.

5. Personnel handling ESDS items shall avoid physical activities that produce static
charges (e.g., wiping feet, adding or removing items of clothing) while in the vicinity of ESDS
items.

8.2 Receiving, Internal Handling, and Shipping

1. The following requirements shall be complied with during receipt, internal handling,
and shipping.

a. All ESDS items received shall be examined for proper ESDS precautionary
marking and for ESD-protective packaging.

(1) Inadequate precautionary markings shall be corrected prior to further

processing.

(2) When an item is received that has not been protected during shipment or
internal transfer, it shall be rejected as defective and processed as non-conforming material.

b. When a kit is assembled that includes an ESDS item, the entire kit shall be
packaged and marked as ESDS. Accompanying documentation shall identify the kit as ESDS.

c. ESDS items packaged for shipping shall be packaged and marked as required by
the contract and by this publication.

8.3 Equipment Level Test and Maintenance

1. The following requirements are applicable, both within a facility and in the field, when
servicing equipment containing ESDS items:
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December 1997

a. Personnel grounding shall be made using a wrist strap before each maintenance
action. Maintenance actions include adjustments, restoring covers, and tightening fasteners.

b. Protective packaging of a replacement ESDS item shall be grounded to the

equipment to dissipate any static charge before the package is opened.

c. As an ESDS item is installed, contact with parts, electrical terminals, and circuitry
shall be minimized.

d. Failed ESDS items shall be placed in protective packaging after removal from the
equipment.

e. Probing ESDS items with test leads shall be conducted while taking maximum
precautions such as ensuring proper grounding and using ionized air, when available.

8.4 Equipment Level Installation

1. ESD-protective covering or protective caps on external terminals, interconnecting

cables, and connector assemblies shall not be removed until necessary to permit the installation.

2. The cable connector pins and cable shield (connector outer shell) shall be grounded
prior to engaging a de-energized connector and cable with a mating receptacle connected to an
ESDS item.

8.5 Identification and Marking

1. ESDS items, equipment, and assemblies shall be identified in compliance with the
following requirements. Identification shall be placed so as to warn personnel before any ESD
damaging procedure can be performed. Packing lists, inspection reports, travelers, and other
paperwork accompanying the hardware shall contain ESDS labels and cautionary notes.

a. Equipment containing ESDS items shall be identified internally with either the
sensitive electronic device symbol from MIL-STD-129 or the EIA specification RS-471 symbol.
These symbols are illustrated in Figure 8-1. The following caution statement shall be placed
adjacent to the ESDS symbol, if room is available.

CAUTION: CONTAINS PARTS AND ASSEMBLIES SUSCEPTIBLE TO DAMAGE BY

ELECTROSTATIC DISCHARGE (ESD).

2. Equipment having external sensitivity shall have ESDS symbols affixed to their
exterior.

3. The ESDS cautionary mark on an assembly shall be visible when the assembly is
installed in the next higher assembly. Alternative identification shall be used as approved by the
procuring NASA Center when the prescribed marking is not possible.

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 NASA-STD-8739.7
December 1997

Figure 8-1: Sensitive Electronic Device Caution Symbols

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 NASA-STD-8739.7
December 1997

CHAPTER 9 - QUALITY ASSURANCE PROVISIONS

9.1 General

1. The delegated quality assurance personnel shall be responsible for ESD control
measures for all ESDS parts or assemblies. These control measures shall be implemented during
all phases of procurement, assembly, disassembly, testing, repairs, handling, inspection, storage,
and packaging for shipping.

9.2 Quality Assurance

1. The following functions shall be performed:

a, Design. All hardware designs containing ESDS parts shall be reviewed by Quality
Assurance to ensure incorporation of all pertinent ESD specifications or standards.

b, Procurement. The cognizant entity shall ensure coordination of quality assurance

with procurement to ensure incorporation of the requirements of this document.

c, Supplier Verification. Suppliers of ESDS items, materials, or services shall be

reviewed for compliance to the requirements of the document.

d, Facility Verification. Quality assurance shall verify the facility qualification in

accordance with paragraph 7.1.

e, Receiving and Shipping Facility. Quality assurance shall verify that all
requirements applicable to the shipping and receiving facilities, where ESDS items are present, are
properly implemented and documented as defined in paragraph 8.2.

f, Assembly, Testing, Operation and Repair Procedures. All assembly, test,

operation and repair procedures for ESDS items shall be reviewed by Quality Assurance for ESD
control adequacy.

g, Personnel Garments, Materials, Tooling and Equipment Verification. Quality

assurance shall verify that all personnel garments, materials, tools and equipment utilized in ESDS
operations meet the requirements of Chapter 7. The verification shall document the type(s) of
tests performed, results, date performed, expiration date(s), name(s) of verifying personnel and
organization.

h, Internal Audits. Quality assurance shall be responsible for the internal auditing of
the ESD-protected areas. The audits shall be made on an agreed upon established schedule to
ensure compliance with the ESD procedures defined herein. A formal report shall be made
available to the audited group and the procuring NASA Center on request. This report shall
include date of audit, performing personnel, requirements audited, documented results, and
recommended corrective action.

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December 1997

NASA TECHNICAL STANDARD IMPROVEMENT PROPOSAL

(See Instructions - Reverse Side)
1. DOCUMENT NUMBER 2. DOCUMENT TITLE

3. NAME OF SUBMlTIlNG ORGANIZATION

4. ADDRESS (Street, City, State, ZIP Code)

5. PROBLEM AREAS

a. Paragraph Number and Wording:

b. Recommended Wording:

c. Rationale for Recommendation

:
6. REMARKS

7. NAME OF SUBMITTER 8. TELEPHONE NO 9. DATE

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 NASA-STD-8739.7
December 1997
INSTRUCTIONS

In a continuing effort to make our NASA Technical Standards better, we invite all holders to use
this form for submitting comments and suggestions for improvements. All users of NASA
documents are invited to provide suggestions. The form may be detached and mailed. In block 5,
be as specific as possible about particular problem areas, such as wording changes, which would
alleviate the problems. Enter in block 6 any remarks not related to a specific paragraph of the
document. An acknowledgment will be mailed to the submitter within 30 days. Supporting data
should accompany any recommendations for changes.

NOTE: THIS FORM MAY NOT BE USED TO REQUEST COPIES OF DOCUMENTS,

NOR TO REQUEST WAIVERS, DEVIATIONS, OR CLARIFICATION OF
HANDBOOK REQUIREMENTS ON CURRENT CONTRACTS. COMMENTS
SUBMITTED ON THIS FORM DO NOT CONSTITUTE OR IMPLY
AUTHORIZATION TO WAIVE ANY PORTION OF THE REFERENCED
DOCUMENT(S) OR TO AMEND CONTRACTUAL REQUIREMENTS.

Proposals may be submitted to:

NHB Technical Standards Coordinator

NASA Headquarters
Mail Code QS
Washington, D.C. 20546

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