ESD S20.20 - Quality Management for Electrostatic Discharge

What is ESD S20.20?

ESD S20.20 focuses on the development of ESD control programs that protect electronic components, assemblies, and equipment from costly electro static discharges. By utilising the guidance and methods in this standard, organisations can increase their protective processes and eliminate the risk of ESD incidents.

Furthermore, the S20.20 standard has quickly become highly regarded in the electronic, telecommunication, aerospace, automotive, and medical device industries.

Once certified, organisations can proudly promote themselves as certificate holders in any of their promotional materials and can include the URS certification logo free of charge.

Who requires an ESD S20.20 certification?

Any organisation with involvement in the manufacturing, handling or servicing of electronic components or equipment that could be damaged by electrostatic discharge will benefit from having a ESD S20.20 certification. Relevant sectors include:

 

• Electronics


• Aerospace


• Automotive


• Medical devices


• Telecommunications

How can ESD S20.20 benefit your business?

Becoming certified for ESD S20.20 can bring a wide range of benefits to your organisation, including:

 

• Reducing the risk of product damage and failures


• Improving customer confidence


• Streamlining operations


• Reducing manufacturing costs

How can you prepare for an ESD S20.20 Certification?

Although the thought of starting the certification process may seem daunting, there are a variety of steps you can take to make the process to becoming certified far more streamlined:

• Familiarise yourself with the ESD S20.20 standard


• Identify any ESD-sensitive devices


• Develop an ESD control program


• Implement control measures


• Carry out regular internal audits to highlight any areas for improvement

What are the key requirements ESD S20.20?

When working towards becoming certified for ESD S20.20, there are various areas that will be a focus during the audit. These areas include:

 

• Grounding conductors and personnel


• Workstation design


• Protective packaging


• Documentation

What clauses make up the structure of ESD S20.20?

Clauses 1-3 – Introduction clauses

The first three clauses of the ESD S20.20 standard serve as an introduction to the role that the standard plays in an organisation and covers a wide range of scope that this standard can be applied to. Clause 3 also provides a list of relevant publications that are referenced throughout the document.

Clause 4 – Definitions

Clause 4 introduces a short list of vital terms that feature throughout the standard, and provides a link to the ESD associations glossary of terms. This glossary provides an in depth collection of important terms and definitions that organisations should familiarise themselves with.

Clause 5 - Personal safety

Clause 5 outlines important safety measures that should be enforced for any personnel that are exposed to hazardous electrical conditions.

Clause 6 – ESD control program

Clause 6 introduces requirements for the ESD control programme that are verified by the ESD control manager. This clause also highlights that certain sections of the standard may not apply to all organisations, and can be tailored to suit an organisation’s needs.

Clause 7 – ESD control program administrative requirements

In the largest section of the standard, clause 7 specifies each of the requirements that accompany the ESD control programme administration. This includes the planning of training, product qualification and compliance.

Clause 8 – ESD control program plan technical requirements

In the final section of the ESD S20.20 standard, clause 8 builds on from previous sections and introduces requirements for the technical aspects of the control program plan. This includes guidance on grounding, protected areas, insolation and packaging.

Clause 9 – Performance evaluation

Clause 9 focuses on the methods and processes used to evaluate the performance of both the SMS and related services. Such methods include monitoring, internal audits and management reviews.

How long will your ESD S20.20 certificate be valid for?

Your ESD S20.20 certificate will be valid for at least three years; dependent on the type of site that is being certified.  

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