IEC 61340-5-3:2022

Overview - IEC 61340-5-3:2022 (ESD packaging)

IEC 61340-5-3:2022 is an international standard that defines properties, classification and performance requirements for ESD protective packaging used to protect electrostatic discharge sensitive devices (ESDSs) during production, rework/maintenance, transport and storage. The standard references test methods to evaluate packaging materials and provides performance limits for packaging intended to prevent electrostatic damage. It explicitly excludes protection from EMI/EMP and electrically initiated explosive devices.

Key topics and technical requirements

• Scope and purpose: Specifies packaging material properties and classification criteria required to maintain device safety across all supply‑chain phases.
• Material resistance properties: Defines how conductive, dissipative and insulating materials are classified and tested (references include IEC 61340-2-3).
• Electrostatic discharge shielding: Sets performance limits and test methods for shielding packaging (see IEC 61340-4-8 for bag testing). Notably, the shielding energy requirement was tightened in this edition from 50 nJ to 20 nJ.
• Marking and traceability: Guidance on packaging classification symbols, marking and traceability - language softened in this edition from “shall be marked” to “should be marked.”
• New/changed content:
  • Removal of the “electrostatic field shielding” material resistance property.
  • Addition of annexes providing guidance on electric field shielding (Annex C) and a low charging material property (Annex D).
  • Updated references to related technical reports and specifications (e.g., IEC TS 61340-5-4, IEC TR 61340-5-5).
• Test references and tables: The standard includes tables listing applicable test methods and performance limits for qualification and verification of packaging.

Practical applications - who uses this standard

IEC 61340-5-3:2022 is used by:

• Electronics manufacturers and contract manufacturers to specify ESD packaging requirements.
• Packaging designers and material suppliers for product development and material selection.
• Quality, ESD program and supply‑chain engineers for supplier qualification, incoming inspection and audit criteria.
• Test laboratories and conformity assessors for verifying packaging performance against referenced test methods. Typical uses include selecting shielding bags and dissipative materials, defining acceptance criteria, labeling packaging, and establishing periodic verification programs.

Related standards

• IEC 61340 series (electrostatics)
• IEC 61340-2-3 (resistivity test methods)
• IEC 61340-4-8 (ESD shielding - bags)
• IEC TS 61340-5-4, IEC TR 61340-5-5 (related guidance and technical specifications)

Keywords: IEC 61340-5-3:2022, ESD packaging, electrostatic discharge, ESDS, ESD protective packaging, electrostatic shielding, low charging materials.