ESD or “Electro Static Discharge” is the electrostatic discharge of charged objects or persons. Having ESD protection involves the protection of extremely sensitive components such as microelectronic components during their production, further processing and delivery. The energy created by static discharge in a semiconductor can be compared to lighting striking a tree – therefore electrostatic discharges can cause serious damage in electronic components

ESD workplaces have special requirements when it comes to design and equipment and one of the key requirements is suitable furnishings such as the work chair. The anti-static compliant chair (ESD chair) is an important part of reliable ESD-protection at the electronic workplace. Any standard chair represents a typical source of electric charge by the chair rollers on the floor and even the simple movement of the person sitting on it can cause significant electrostatic charges.

The right chair for the ESD workplace

So what does the perfect ESD chair look like? First of all, it corresponds to the European standard EN 61340-5-1 at a minimum. This is a must. This standard governs that the resistance of all surfaces of an ESD chair that come into contact with the human body must have a floor contact point of 1010 O. This is of paramount importance. In order to be able to meet the requirements of this standard, the upholstery and all plastics, steel parts, rollers and glides, i.e. all chair components, must be conductive. The right materials must be selected and combined correctly. However, the charge created unknowingly by the chair’s user must also be reliably conducted to the ground.

The right ESD chair = Reliable protection + supportive ergonomics

An ESD workplace often involves long periods of what is primarily static sitting. In order to create optimum ergonomic conditions for the employees, it is important that the ESD chair can be easily and individually adapted to personal requirements, as only then is the perfect sitting comfort guaranteed. The seat’s height, angle, depth and backrest must be adjustable as well as features such as regulation of body weight and armrests, as well as a permanent contact backrest. The person sitting in the chair must always be well supported, even when carrying out unfavourable movements and the shape of the seat shell must allow for maximum freedom of movement.

So, as you can see, there is plenty to consider when it comes to setting up an appropriate ESD workplace. Most importantly, it must provide reliable protection against electrostatic discharge. Camlab partners with Europe’s leading manufacturer for industrial and laboratory chairs, Bimos, in order to bring you a large range of laboratory chairs  and industrial chairs which include a wide anti-static range. There are many options to choose from so please get in touch and we can help select the best option for your needs. For more information regarding our range of ESD compliant chairs please get in touch with our technical team on support@camlab.co.uk, phone 01954 233 120 or fill in the form below and we can contact you to discuss the options.