What are ESD heel straps?

ESD heel straps are antistatic devices worn on shoes to provide a path to ground for static electricity, preventing ESD events.

How do ESD heel straps work?

ESD heel straps work by connecting the body to a grounded surface, allowing static electricity to dissipate safely and reducing the risk of ESD.

Why is ESD protection important?

ESD protection is crucial to prevent damage to sensitive electronic components caused by electrostatic discharge, which can lead to product failure.

Who should use ESD heel straps?

ESD heel straps are recommended for anyone working in environments with sensitive electronic components or where ESD events must be minimized.

Can ESD heel straps be used on any footwear?

ESD heel straps can be used on most types of footwear, but they are most effective when worn with shoes that have conductive soles.

How often should ESD heel straps be replaced?

The replacement frequency for ESD heel straps depends on their condition and wear, but they should be regularly checked for effectiveness.

Where can I buy ESD heel straps?

ESD heel straps can be purchased from specialized ESD equipment suppliers, such as those listed on the ESD Equipment website.

Foot Grounders

Grounding systems

Heel grounders and foot grounders dissipate electrostatic charge from the body through the footwear into a conductive floor, completing the grounding circuit in ESD-protected areas per IEC 61340-5-1. The range covers single-use self-adhesive heel straps (packs of 100) for short-term use and heavy-duty reusable models with hook-and-loop or snap fasteners for shift operation. DESCO models such as the Snap-Loc Heel Grounder and Economy Cup Style incorporate a 1-megohm series resistor to limit discharge current to safe levels.

Beyond the standard heel strap, the range includes toe grounders and full-coverage foot grounders (DESCO stat-A-REST). For high-traffic areas, disposable conductive booties (DESCO 52016, 150 pairs/box) and EGB overshoes with wall-mounted dispensers and automatic overshoe dispensing machines are available.

⚡ 1 megohm series resistor - limits discharge current to safe levels per IEC 61340-5-1

✓ Disposable and reusable types - self-adhesive single-use straps (100-pack) and durable models with hook-and-loop or snap closure

⚙ Multiple fastening options - hook-and-loop, snap, clip; extra-wide version for wide work shoes

✦ Extended range - toe grounders, full-coverage foot grounders (stat-A-REST), overshoes and conductive booties (150 pairs/box)

📦 Accessories and dispensers - wall mounts for disposable straps and automatic overshoe dispensing machines

Criterion	Disposable	Reusable
Duration of use	Short-term, visitor areas	Shift work, daily use
Fastening	Self-adhesive to shoe	Hook-and-loop or snap closure
Cost per use	Low (100-pack)	Low over service life
Resistance	1 megohm (DESCO models)	1 megohm (DESCO models)
Testability	Single use, no testing required	Regular testing recommended

Typical applications: Electronics assembly and SMT placement in EPA zones (IEC 61340-5-1), semiconductor manufacturing and wafer handling, repair and rework areas for ESD-sensitive assemblies, visitor and airlock zones requiring temporary protection, and warehouses or goods-in areas with conductive flooring.