Components and PCBs often move through several hands before the final product is complete. The danger is not only at the assembly bench; it is also in the transfer between workstations, inspection points, stores, and packing.
Create a defined transfer method
Every sensitive item should have a defined carrier, tray, bag, or rack. Avoid hand-carrying bare boards, stacking assemblies directly, or placing components in ordinary containers. Marvel Products’ Conductive Storage category includes bins, boxes, trays, PCB carriers, and component organisers for controlled movement.
Use packaging when the item leaves the EPA
If an item moves outside the ESD protected area, it should be packed for that journey. Use the correct option from Antistatic Packaging, such as antistatic bags, air bubble bags, or static shielding bags depending on risk and distance.
Train the handover point
Many failures happen during handover: one operator removes a board from a protected tray, another places it on an ordinary table, or QA moves it into a non-ESD bin. Use labels, colour coding, and short work instructions at each handover point.
Check people and surfaces
Movement control still depends on grounded people and safe surfaces. Review Personnel Grounding for mobile operators and use ESD instruments to verify benches and floors.
The safest transfer method is the one that operators can follow quickly, repeatedly, and without guessing.