Controlling Electrostatic Discharge ESD in Cleanrooms
Kjeld Lund May 30, 2025
Introduction
Electrostatic discharge (ESD) is a phenomenon that occurs when there is a sudden flow of electricity between two electrically charged objects. This discharge can be incredibly damaging, especially in environments that handle sensitive electronic components or biological materials. Cleanrooms, which are meticulously controlled environments used for various applications like semiconductor manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and medical device production, must be designed to control all potential sources of contamination. ESD is one of the most critical factors in maintaining the integrity of cleanroom processes and the safety of the equipment and materials being handled.
In this article, we will delve into the concept of electrostatic discharge, its impact on cleanroom environments, the best practices for controlling ESD, and the technologies used to prevent its occurrence in sensitive areas. Understanding the complexities of ESD and its control is essential for ensuring the quality, safety, and efficiency of cleanroom operations, particularly in industries dealing with advanced electronics, sensitive biological research, or high-precision manufacturing.
What is Electrostatic Discharge (ESD)?
Electrostatic discharge refers to the sudden transfer of electrostatic charge between two objects of different electrical potentials. This can happen when one object, often a human body, carries an electrostatic charge and comes into contact with another object, like a piece of sensitive electronic equipment or a semiconductor wafer. The charge transfer that occurs during ESD can result in short circuits, malfunctioning devices, or permanent damage to components that cannot be repaired.
In cleanrooms, where precision is critical, and equipment must perform at optimal levels, even the smallest ESD event can have disastrous consequences. For example, in semiconductor manufacturing, a single static discharge could render an entire wafer batch unusable, leading to financial losses and delays in production schedules. In the pharmaceutical or medical device industry, the presence of static electricity could cause contamination or negatively affect the quality of drugs, devices, or biological samples.
The Impact of ESD on Cleanrooms
The impact of ESD in cleanrooms can be far-reaching, affecting both the safety of workers and the quality of the products or research being conducted.
Some of the main risks of ESD in cleanroom environments include:
- Damage to Electronic Components: In cleanrooms, especially in industries like semiconductor manufacturing, electronics, and aerospace, ESD is one of the leading causes of damage to sensitive components. Modern electronic devices are increasingly smaller and more complex, with increasingly delicate circuits. Static electricity can destroy or degrade the functionality of integrated circuits, transistors, microchips, and other critical components, leading to failed products and costly losses.
- Contamination Risk: In certain cleanroom environments, such as those used in the pharmaceutical or biotechnology sectors, ESD can create sparks that ignite combustible or flammable substances. This poses a serious safety risk, especially in areas where hazardous chemicals or volatile compounds are used or stored. Additionally, uncontrolled ESD can lead to the movement of particles, which can interfere with sterile processes or experiments, further compromising the cleanliness of the environment.
- Loss of Product Yield: In semiconductor manufacturing, even a single ESD event can result in the loss of entire product batches. Given the high value of materials and components, the financial implications of an ESD-induced failure can be significant. For example, a microchip that is subjected to an ESD event might be rendered useless, forcing manufacturers to discard it and start the production process over.
- Inconsistent Test Results: In laboratories that rely on controlled environments, such as research labs in biotechnology or pharmaceuticals, ESD can introduce unpredictable variables into experiments. For example, in cell culture research, sensitive biological samples can be affected by minor static charges that disrupt the growth of cells or alter experimental results. This can lead to unreliable data, delays in research, and, in some cases, the need to repeat entire experimental procedures.
Best Practices for Controlling ESD in Cleanrooms
Controlling electrostatic discharge in cleanrooms is a comprehensive effort that requires the integration of various technologies, design elements, and operational practices. Cleanroom environments should be designed to minimize the accumulation and discharge of static electricity, and personnel should be trained to follow proper procedures to prevent static buildup. Here are several best practices to control ESD effectively:
1. Control of Ambient Humidity
One of the most effective ways to reduce the buildup of static electricity in cleanrooms is through the careful management of humidity levels. Electrostatic charges are more likely to accumulate in environments with low humidity, as the lack of moisture in the air allows the static charge to build up and discharge more readily. By increasing humidity levels to a range of 40-60%, static buildup can be minimized.
Many cleanrooms, particularly in industries like electronics and pharmaceuticals, use humidifiers as part of their HVAC systems to maintain the desired humidity levels. Proper control of temperature and humidity not only reduces static electricity but also improves overall air quality, which is important for maintaining a clean environment.
2. Anti-Static Flooring
Flooring is a critical element in controlling ESD in cleanrooms. The materials used in cleanroom floors must be selected based on their ability to dissipate static charges and prevent static buildup. Anti-static and conductive flooring options, such as vinyl and rubber with conductive additives, are commonly used to control ESD in cleanrooms.
- Conductive Floors: Conductive flooring allows static electricity to travel safely to the ground, preventing static charges from accumulating on surfaces or equipment.
- Static-Dissipative Floors: These floors offer a slightly slower dissipation of charge, providing a safe environment for sensitive electronic components while minimizing the risk of electrical discharge.
It is essential to ground the flooring system correctly to ensure that any accumulated static charges are safely directed away from critical equipment and personnel.
3. ESD-Safe Workstations and Furniture
Workstations and furniture in cleanrooms must also be designed to minimize static buildup. Anti-static or ESD-safe work surfaces and chairs are commonly used to prevent electrostatic charge accumulation during work. These workstations are often equipped with grounding straps, which provide a pathway for any built-up static electricity to be safely discharged to the ground.
Other ESD-safe equipment, such as ionizers, are also used to neutralize static charges in the work area. Ionizers generate ions that balance out the charge differential between objects, ensuring that static buildup does not reach dangerous levels.
4. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Personnel working in cleanrooms must wear appropriate personal protective equipment to prevent the introduction of static charges into the environment. This includes:
- ESD Wrist Straps: These wrist straps are designed to discharge any static electricity that may accumulate on a person’s body. They should be worn at all times when working with sensitive electronic components or equipment.
- ESD Gloves: Non-static generating gloves are essential to prevent the transfer of static electricity from human hands to products or work surfaces.
- Conductive Footwear: Anti-static or conductive footwear is crucial in maintaining a constant grounding path for personnel, preventing the buildup of static charges as they move around the cleanroom.
Proper training and awareness of static control practices are critical for personnel to minimize the risks associated with ESD. Workers should be educated on the importance of ESD control, how to handle sensitive equipment, and how to use anti-static clothing and accessories effectively.
5. Ionization Systems
Ionization systems are often installed in cleanrooms to neutralize static charges in the air. These systems generate ions, which help neutralize charged surfaces by balancing the electrical charge, thereby preventing static buildup.
Ionizers are particularly useful in areas where humidity levels cannot be easily controlled or in processes that require extremely low levels of contamination.
Ionization is especially critical in environments where sensitive electronic components are handled, such as semiconductor fabrication or assembly lines for consumer electronics. In these environments, the presence of any static charge can lead to costly damage to microchips, circuit boards, or other components.
6. ESD-Safe Packaging
For cleanrooms involved in electronics assembly or semiconductor manufacturing, packaging materials must also be ESD-safe to protect sensitive components during transport and storage.
Conductive or static-dissipative materials, such as antistatic bags, trays, and boxes, are used to ensure that components are not exposed to static charges.
Monitoring and Maintenance
To ensure that ESD control measures remain effective, cleanroom environments must be regularly monitored and maintained. This includes:
- Routine Grounding Inspections: Periodic checks of the grounding system (including floors, workstations, and personnel equipment) are essential to ensure that all components are properly grounded.
- Air Quality and Humidity Monitoring: Environmental monitoring systems should be installed to track humidity levels, temperature, and static charge buildup in real-time. This ensures that conditions remain optimal for controlling ESD and minimizing risks to sensitive equipment.
- Training and Protocols: Cleanroom personnel should undergo regular training on ESD control protocols, including handling ESD-sensitive equipment, using proper PPE, and understanding the risks associated with electrostatic discharge.
Conclusion
Controlling electrostatic discharge in cleanrooms is a critical component of maintaining the integrity of sensitive materials, equipment, and processes. ESD can cause irreparable damage to electronic components, lead to contamination in sterile environments, and even cause safety hazards.
Through proper design, careful material selection, and the implementation of best practices, cleanrooms can effectively control ESD and minimize its impact on operations.
By controlling ambient humidity, installing anti-static flooring, utilizing ESD-safe workstations, equipping personnel with proper protective gear, and using ionization systems, cleanroom operators can create an environment that minimizes the risks associated with electrostatic discharge.
With continued monitoring and maintenance, cleanrooms can ensure that the integrity of research, manufacturing, and production processes remains intact, supporting industries where precision and safety are paramount.
Read more: All About Cleanrooms - The ultimate Guide
Introduction Cleanrooms are environments that require stringent control over airborne particles, temperature, humidity, and other factors to ensure product quality, safety, and operational effectiveness. The materials used for cleanroom walls and ceilings are vital in maintaining cleanliness, structural integrity, and performance in highly regulated environments such as pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, electronics manufacturing, and aerospace.  Over time, innovations in cleanroom wall and ceiling materials have significantly advanced in response to evolving regulatory demands, sustainability needs, and operational efficiency. This article delves into the most impactful innovations in cleanroom wall and ceiling materials, highlighting new technologies, materials, and design concepts. 1. Introduction to Cleanroom Requirements Cleanrooms are classified based on the level of particulate contamination they can tolerate. The materials used for the walls and ceilings in these rooms are expected to meet specific criteria that ensure optimal cleanliness and safety. These criteria include: Non-porosity : Walls and ceilings should be smooth and resistant to particle accumulation. Cleanability : Materials must be easy to clean, durable, and resistant to wear. Durability : Resistance to physical damage, chemicals, and thermal stress is critical. Fire resistance : Fire safety is crucial in highly regulated environments. Energy efficiency : Cleanroom materials must contribute to energy-saving solutions, especially with high operational costs. 2. Key Innovations in Cleanroom Wall Materials Innovations in wall materials primarily focus on improving functionality, sustainability, and ease of installation. Below are some of the key innovations: a. Modular Cleanroom Wall Systems Design Flexibility : Modular systems consist of pre-fabricated panels made from various materials, including metals, composites, and plastics. This modular approach allows for fast and easy construction, customization, and upgrades. Easy Maintenance : The modularity of the panels makes it easier to replace or adjust sections of the walls without disrupting the entire cleanroom operation. Integrated Features : Some modular systems feature integrated components like lights or airflow management systems. b. High-Performance Coatings Anti-Microbial Coatings : These coatings help prevent the growth of harmful microorganisms on the surface, a critical feature in environments such as pharmaceuticals and food processing. Low-VOC Paints : Low volatile organic compound (VOC) paints improve air quality by releasing fewer harmful chemicals into the environment, contributing to cleaner air in the controlled environment. Enhanced Durability : These coatings improve the resistance of cleanroom surfaces to chemicals, moisture, and physical impact. c. Composites and Hybrid Materials Fiberglass Reinforced Panels (FRP) : FRP provides a smooth, durable, and resistant surface that is easy to clean, making it ideal for cleanroom environments. Hybrid Materials : Combining multiple materials (e.g., metals and plastics) allows for greater flexibility in achieving the desired balance of strength, durability, and ease of maintenance. 3. Innovations in Cleanroom Ceiling Materials Ceilings in cleanrooms serve multiple functions, from supporting air filtration systems to ensuring uniform air circulation. Some innovations in ceiling materials include: a. Suspended Ceiling Systems Improved Grid Systems : Modern suspended ceiling grids are designed with tight seals to reduce the accumulation of dust and particulate matter. Lightweight and Fire-Resistant Materials : Ceiling panels made from metals or composites offer better fire resistance and longer-lasting performance while maintaining ease of maintenance. Flexibility in Installation : Suspended ceilings offer flexibility in concealing electrical wiring, ducts, and other essential systems without compromising the cleanroom’s functionality. b. Integrated Lighting and Air Filtration Systems Airflow Optimization : Integrated ceiling designs allow for the seamless incorporation of high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters, ensuring that clean air is continually supplied to the room. Streamlined Maintenance : The integration of lighting and filtration systems into the ceiling minimizes the need for separate installations, reducing the risk of contamination and simplifying maintenance. c. Thermal Insulation Materials Aerogels and Composites : Advanced thermal insulation materials such as aerogels help maintain consistent temperatures and reduce energy consumption. These materials are highly efficient at preventing heat transfer, contributing to better temperature control and reduced energy costs. Condensation Control : Proper insulation materials help prevent condensation on ceiling surfaces, which could lead to contamination in sensitive cleanroom environments. 4. Sustainability and Energy Efficiency As sustainability becomes a primary focus, cleanroom designs are evolving to incorporate energy-efficient materials and environmentally friendly practices. a. Energy-Efficient Materials Reflective Foils and Aerogels : These materials provide superior insulation, reducing the need for heating and cooling systems while maintaining temperature stability. Smart Materials : Thermochromic or photochromic materials that respond to temperature or light conditions can further optimize energy consumption and reduce operational costs. b. Recyclable Materials Eco-Friendly Composites : Many new cleanroom materials are designed to be recyclable, reducing waste generated during construction and operation. Green Certifications : Manufacturers are developing materials that meet sustainability certifications, contributing to cleaner construction practices and helping companies achieve their green building goals. 5. Future Trends and Research Directions Ongoing research in material science and cleanroom design is focused on enhancing the performance, sustainability, and cost-efficiency of cleanroom environments. a. Smart Cleanroom Technologies Sensors and Monitoring : The integration of smart sensors into walls and ceilings will allow for real-time monitoring of temperature, humidity, and particle counts. This technology will enable automated adjustments, improving the efficiency of cleanroom operations. Predictive Maintenance : With the help of machine learning and data analytics, cleanroom wall and ceiling systems will be able to predict wear and tear, enabling more efficient maintenance schedules. b. Advanced Airflow Systems Dynamic Airflow Control : Research into dynamic airflow systems aims to enhance air circulation and particle removal based on real-time conditions, reducing energy consumption and improving the overall cleanliness of the room. Modular Airflow Management : New innovations in modular air filtration and ventilation systems are designed to be integrated into both walls and ceilings, offering better control over airflow distribution. Conclusion Innovations in cleanroom wall and ceiling materials have significantly advanced over the years, driven by the need for higher performance, greater sustainability, and operational efficiency. From modular cleanroom wall systems to advanced ceiling panels with integrated air filtration and lighting, these innovations contribute to better control over the cleanroom environment and ensure compliance with stringent regulations. As the demand for cleaner, more sustainable, and more efficient cleanrooms grows, it is likely that further advancements will continue to reshape the way cleanroom walls and ceilings are designed and constructed, making these environments even more adaptable and effective in meeting the needs of various industries. The growing focus on energy efficiency, smart technologies, and recyclable materials indicates that the future of cleanroom construction will prioritize sustainability without compromising on performance, safety, or cleanliness. Read more: All about Cleanrooms : The Ultimate Guide
Introduction Cleanrooms are essential in industries where maintaining a contamination-free environment is critical to the quality, safety, and efficacy of the products being produced. These specialized environments are designed to minimize airborne particles, dust, microbes, and other potential contaminants, ensuring that sensitive processes and materials remain uncontaminated throughout their lifecycle. Cleanrooms are widely used across various sectors, including pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, aerospace, semiconductor manufacturing, and medical device production, where even the slightest deviation in environmental conditions can have significant consequences. In this article, we will explore the crucial role cleanrooms play in enhancing product quality, how they impact manufacturing processes, and the various factors that contribute to maintaining the highest standards of cleanliness. We will also delve into the operational and regulatory implications of cleanroom environments and how they help businesses maintain product integrity, meet compliance standards, and ultimately drive customer satisfaction. Cleanrooms and Their Role in Product Quality The primary goal of a cleanroom is to provide a controlled environment where contamination risks are minimized, and product integrity is safeguarded. These environments are equipped with specialized air filtration systems, humidity and temperature controls, pressure differentials, and meticulous protocols for cleaning, gowning, and material handling. By maintaining strict control over these factors, cleanrooms ensure that products and processes meet the highest quality standards and regulatory requirements. The impact of cleanrooms on product quality is evident across various stages of the product lifecycle, from design and development to manufacturing and packaging. Below are several key ways in which cleanrooms positively influence product quality: 1. Contamination Control One of the most significant ways in which cleanrooms impact product quality is through contamination control. In industries like pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and semiconductor manufacturing, even the smallest particle or microorganism can cause defects, contamination, or failure of products. For example, in the production of injectable drugs, the presence of airborne bacteria or particles can compromise the sterility of the product, making it unsafe for human use. Cleanrooms are designed to minimize the introduction of contaminants from various sources, including personnel, equipment, materials, and the external environment. Air filtration systems, such as High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) or Ultra-Low Penetration Air (ULPA) filters, are used to trap airborne particles, while positive pressure ventilation systems help ensure that cleanroom air flows outward, preventing the ingress of contaminants from surrounding areas. By maintaining strict cleanliness standards, cleanrooms reduce the likelihood of defects or contamination, ultimately ensuring that the product remains safe, effective, and of the highest quality. 2. Consistency in Manufacturing In cleanrooms, process control is critical, and a stable, controlled environment is crucial to ensure consistent results. Variations in environmental factors such as temperature, humidity, and particle levels can cause discrepancies in the manufacturing process, which can lead to inconsistencies in product quality. Cleanrooms help eliminate these variables by regulating and maintaining precise environmental conditions that are required for specific processes. For example, in the semiconductor manufacturing industry, where microchips are produced, even the smallest temperature fluctuation or particle in the environment can result in defective chips. Cleanrooms allow manufacturers to maintain consistent conditions during critical processes like photolithography, chemical vapor deposition (CVD), and etching, ensuring that the end product consistently meets the desired specifications. 3. Enhanced Precision and Accuracy Certain industries, such as aerospace, medical device manufacturing, and biotechnology, require a high level of precision in their products. Cleanrooms provide the optimal environment for ensuring that these precision-engineering processes are conducted without interference from environmental factors. In the medical device industry, for instance, cleanrooms are used to manufacture components that must meet strict dimensional and functional tolerances. A small variation caused by external contamination or environmental fluctuations could render a product ineffective or unsafe for use. Cleanrooms help minimize these risks by providing a controlled space in which the product can be created with the utmost precision. In biotechnology research, cleanrooms also play a critical role in ensuring that experimental results are accurate and reproducible. By maintaining a contamination-free environment, researchers can work with sensitive biological materials without the risk of interference from airborne particles or microorganisms, ensuring the accuracy of their findings and the quality of any products derived from their research. 4. Regulatory Compliance and Product Safety Cleanrooms are essential for meeting the rigorous regulatory standards set forth by organizations such as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the European Medicines Agency (EMA), and the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). These regulatory bodies require that products—particularly in industries like pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and medical devices—be manufactured under strict conditions to ensure their safety, efficacy, and quality. For example, the pharmaceutical industry adheres to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), which dictate that cleanrooms must meet specific cleanliness classifications based on the number of allowable particles per cubic meter. These regulations ensure that products such as sterile drugs, biologics, or vaccines are not contaminated during production, testing, or packaging. Failure to comply with these standards can result in product recalls, penalties, and damage to a company's reputation. By ensuring compliance with regulatory standards, cleanrooms help manufacturers produce high-quality products that meet the safety requirements set forth by health authorities, ultimately benefiting both businesses and consumers. 5. Improved Product Longevity and Stability In industries such as pharmaceuticals and biotechnology, the shelf life and stability of a product are critical to its success in the market. Cleanrooms help extend the longevity of products by ensuring that they are produced and stored in optimal conditions, free from contaminants that could compromise their stability. For example, in the production of biologic drugs or vaccines, environmental factors like temperature and humidity can significantly impact the efficacy of the final product. Cleanrooms with precise control over these factors help maintain the stability of these sensitive products, ensuring that they remain effective for the duration of their shelf life. 6. Protection of Sensitive Products and Materials Many products in industries such as electronics, aerospace, and pharmaceuticals contain highly sensitive materials that can be damaged by environmental factors like dust, moisture, or temperature fluctuations. Cleanrooms provide a controlled environment to protect these materials during manufacturing and assembly. In the semiconductor industry, for example, the production of microchips involves delicate processes that require extreme precision. Even a tiny speck of dust can interfere with the production of a microchip, causing defects that can affect the chip’s performance or lead to product failure. Cleanrooms offer a safe, controlled space to manufacture these components, ensuring that they meet the rigorous quality standards required for use in sensitive devices like smartphones, computers, and medical equipment. Factors Contributing to Cleanroom Impact on Product Quality Several factors contribute to how cleanrooms affect product quality. These factors can vary depending on the type of cleanroom, the industry, and the specific processes involved, but the following are some of the most critical: 1. Air Quality and Filtration Systems Air filtration is one of the most critical components of cleanroom design. HEPA or ULPA filters are used to capture particulate matter from the air, ensuring that the cleanroom remains free from contaminants. The efficiency of the filtration system directly affects the cleanliness of the environment and, by extension, the quality of the products being manufactured or processed. 2. Temperature and Humidity Control Temperature and humidity control are vital for maintaining the stability and integrity of certain products. Cleanrooms are equipped with HVAC systems that regulate these factors, ensuring that they remain within optimal ranges for the specific product or process being performed. For example, temperature fluctuations can affect the viscosity of materials in pharmaceutical production or interfere with the curing process of coatings in semiconductor fabrication. 3. Personnel and Gowning Protocols Personnel play a crucial role in maintaining cleanroom standards. The introduction of contaminants from clothing, skin cells, or hair can lead to contamination. Cleanrooms implement strict gowning protocols, requiring workers to wear specialized clothing, including gowns, gloves, masks, and hairnets, to prevent the introduction of particles or microorganisms. 4. Equipment Calibration and Maintenance In cleanroom environments, equipment must be regularly calibrated and maintained to ensure that it operates within the required tolerances. Malfunctioning equipment can introduce defects or contamination into the product, leading to variations in quality. Routine checks and maintenance schedules ensure that the equipment is operating optimally, contributing to consistent product quality. 5. Training and Protocol Adherence Proper training for personnel is essential to ensure that cleanroom protocols are followed consistently. Workers must be aware of the importance of cleanliness, how to handle materials safely, and the correct procedures for gowning and decontaminating surfaces. Strict adherence to protocols ensures that the cleanroom environment remains sterile and that product quality is not compromised. Conclusion Cleanrooms play a fundamental role in ensuring product quality across various industries, from pharmaceuticals to semiconductor manufacturing. By controlling contamination, maintaining consistency, optimizing precision, and ensuring regulatory compliance, cleanrooms help businesses produce high-quality products that meet the stringent standards required for safety and efficacy. Whether producing drugs, medical devices, or microchips, the impact of cleanrooms on product quality cannot be overstated. They are an essential tool in ensuring that products are safe, reliable, and effective, and that the processes used to create them are efficient and compliant with industry regulations. By maintaining strict control over environmental factors, cleanrooms provide the foundation for high-quality products that meet the needs and expectations of consumers worldwide. Read more: All About Cleanrooms - The ultimate Guide
Introduction In the highly regulated world of cleanroom operations, every detail is essential. Whether you’re producing life-saving pharmaceuticals, manufacturing microelectronics with extreme precision, or assembling aerospace components, maintaining the highest standards is non-negotiable. For decades, cleanroom standards have been critical in ensuring the quality and safety of these operations, but after more than 20 years, one of the most important standards is undergoing its first major revision. ISO 14644-5, titled Cleanrooms and Associated Controlled Environments – Part 5: Operations, has served as the global guideline for cleanroom operations since its publication in 2004. Over the years, the industry has evolved, yet the standard has remained largely unchanged. That is, until the upcoming update in May 2025, which promises to modernize and streamline cleanroom practices to align with today's technological and regulatory advancements. The Long-Awaited Update to Cleanroom Operations ISO 14644-5 has long been a cornerstone of cleanroom management, covering everything from gowning and cleaning protocols to materials handling and personnel practices. However, with the advancements in controlled environments and stricter regulations, the original document was no longer enough to provide comprehensive guidance. In response, various organizations, including IEST, ANSI, ASTM, ESD, USP, PDA, and ISPE, have issued their own sets of recommended practices to address gaps in the existing ISO framework. While useful, this fragmented approach has meant that cleanroom professionals needed to consult multiple sources for best practices, often leading to confusion and inefficiency. Now, the new ISO 14644-5 revision consolidates these fragmented practices into a cohesive, updated framework, providing cleanroom operators with one unified set of standards that reflect current industry practices, risks, and regulatory expectations. Key Changes in the 2025 Revision One of the most notable updates in the 2025 revision is the integration of ISO 14644-18 , titled Cleanrooms and Associated Controlled Environments – Part 18: Assessment of Suitability of Consumables, which was published in 2023. ISO 14644-18 focuses on the selection and qualification of consumables such as gloves, wipers, garments, and other materials commonly used in cleanrooms. Historically, these consumables have been viewed as secondary materials. However, the 2025 update acknowledges that consumables are a critical component in maintaining contamination control. The updated standard now includes comprehensive criteria for evaluating consumables, such as particle counts, chemical contaminants, biocontamination risks, and functional performance. This helps ensure that materials do not become a source of contamination, which could compromise product integrity and compliance. IEST Recommended Practices (RPs) Now Part of ISO 14644-5 A significant development in the 2025 revision is the formal inclusion of IEST Recommended Practices (RPs) in the ISO framework. For the first time, these test-based, procedural guides are referenced in ISO standards to support cleanroom operations. Some key IEST RPs integrated into the updated standard include: IEST-RP-CC003 – Cleanroom Garments: This RP covers the selection, material types, and proper usage of cleanroom garments. It also provides guidelines for lifecycle management through modern tracking tools like barcoding and RFID. IEST-RP-CC004 – Wipers: This guide details the testing methods for wipers, including absorbency, particle release, and chemical compatibility, offering a more precise selection for specific applications. IEST-RP-CC005 – Gloves and Finger Cots: This RP covers the testing of barrier performance, microbial risks, and static dissipation, ensuring that gloves and other materials meet the strict requirements of cleanroom environments. By incorporating these IEST RPs, the 2025 revision enhances the technical direction available to cleanroom managers, allowing for better-informed decision-making when selecting consumables and managing cleanroom operations. What Does This Mean for Cleanroom Operators? The 2025 revision of ISO 14644-5 offers cleanroom professionals an opportunity to update their practices to better align with current standards and best practices. To fully take advantage of this updated framework, cleanroom managers should: Reevaluate Consumables: Reassess the selection, testing, and qualification of consumables to ensure they meet the new ISO and IEST criteria. This will help minimize contamination risks and improve overall compliance. Update SOPs and Procurement Standards: Review and revise Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and procurement standards to ensure they align with the new guidelines outlined in the revised ISO 14644-5. Utilize IEST RPs for Detailed Guidance: Leverage the IEST Recommended Practices to implement specific, test-based procedures in cleanroom operations, enhancing the quality and consistency of decisions made on a daily basis. Revise Training Programs: Update training programs to reflect the new operational requirements and best practices introduced by the 2025 revision. Ensure all staff are aware of the changes and trained to meet the updated standards. The Path Forward The 2025 update to ISO 14644-5 represents a critical milestone in the evolution of cleanroom standards. By consolidating fragmented practices into one unified standard and incorporating modern approaches to consumables and operational management, the new revision ensures that cleanroom operations remain effective and compliant in an increasingly complex environment. For organizations operating in cleanroom environments, adopting these changes early is essential to stay ahead of regulatory expectations, minimize contamination risks, and maintain the integrity of products. The 2025 ISO 14644-5 revision provides the opportunity to optimize processes, improve efficiency, and ultimately safeguard the quality of products that can have life-or-death consequences. Read more: All About Cleanrooms - The ultimate Guide