This damage can cause the device to completely stop functioning, in which case it is so-called catastrophic damage. Or the damage can be partial. Latent damage is usually the most costly as the equipment fails during customer use, necessitating the return of the board and replacement of the component. It has been estimated that such repair cost averages upward of 100 times the cost of the component. ESD events and damage can be prevented.
Prevention begins with training everyone about the causes, effects, and methods of prevention.
Effective measure include grounding everyone who comes close to electrosensitive devices. Using grounded static dissipative work surfaces. When not working on the devices, store them and transport them in static dissipative bags. Install ionizers in the work stations to make the air conductive and thereby reduce the accumulated charges not otherwise controlled. Finally, periodic retraining and auditing are necessary to assure the program remains effective.