3-43
Figure 3-33.—Typical ESD ground work bench.
Energized equipment provides protection from ESD damage through operating circuitry. Circuit
cards with ESD sensitive devices are generally considered safe when installed in an equipment rack; but
they may be susceptible to damage if a "drawer" or "module" is removed and if connector pins are
touched (even putting on plastic covers can transfer charges that do damage). There must not be any
energized equipment placed on the conductive ESD work surface. An ESD work area is for "dead"
equipment ONLY.
ESD protection is critical. If you should be assigned to 2M repair school, your education in ESD
prevention will be quite extensive.
PERSONAL SAFETY
Throughout your career you will be aware of emphasis placed on safety. Safety rules remind you of
potential dangers in work. Most accidents are preventable. Accidents don't happen without a cause. Most
accidents are the result of not following prescribed safe operating procedures.
This would be a good time to review the safety section in topic 5 of NEETS, Module 2, Introduction
to Alternating Current and Transformers. That section covers the basics of electrical shock and how to
prevent it.
The 2M technician should be aware of other potential dangers in addition to the dangers of electrical
shock. These dangers are discussed in the following paragraphs.
