The ESD control workstations and components covered by this specification are intended for use in a variety of military maintenance operations. This includes some clean room applications, flight line or field maintenance, and test/repair work (see 6.1.1). All types are used for ESD protection of military electronic parts, assemblies and equipment. The resistance requirements discussed in this specification were selected to ensure that the ESD control workstations and components effectively dissipate static charges from conductive or dissipative materials placed upon the Type I, II, or III worksurfaces.

Personnel safety is of principal importance. Users of items provided under this specification should consider the safety guidelines of MIL-HDBK-454, Guideline 1. Personnel exposure to current levels should be limited to the perception level as shown in MIL-HDBK-454, Guideline 1. The wrist strap cords and associated resistor (see figure 4) provided under this specification provide current limiting capability for voltages not exceeding 1,000 VAC (25 Hz - 400 Hz) or 4,000 VDC only when there is no parallel path to ground between personnel and ground.

MIL-STD-1686, "Electrostatic Discharge Control Program for Protection of Electrical and Electronic Parts, Assemblies and Equipment (Excluding Electrically Initiated Explosive Devices)" defines ESD sensitive items.

This type of ESD control workstation contains a rigid Type I worksurface which may be suitable for use in rough or harsh environments. In addition, the hardness of the surface and its relative resistance to abrasion may make it suitable for clean room use. This should be verified before use by appropriate clean room requirements personnel.

This type of ESD control workstation contains a cushioned Type II worksurface which can be used in all areas other than clean rooms and laminar flow booths where ESD sensitive items are handled. The worksurface is cushioned and inherently offers some physical shock protection should an ESD sensitive item be dropped or bumped against it.

This type of ESD control workstation contains a portable Type III worksurface intended for use in situations where other ESD control workstations are not available or feasible for use. It provides a portable means of handling ESD sensitive items by military personnel during remote maintenance, test, repair or diagnostic operations.