When purchasing components to assemble a
computer, special packing materials are used with microchips and Printed
Circuit Boards (PCBs). These packing materials range from
special molded plastics and foams for microchips to antistatic bags
for PCBs.  Do not remove any component from special packaging until it
is ready to be installed. Use antistatic bags to temporarily store
parts and components when disassembling a computer for cleaning or
other preventive maintenance actions.
When working on a computer or the individual components, there
are a few tools that should be used to reduce the risk of ESD.
Another item that can be used when working on computers is an antistatic spray. Examples of manufacturers for antistatic spray include Kensington, Endust for Electronics, Computronics, and so on. These sprays or solutions can be used on floors, desks, and in some cases on the equipment itself. Make sure to follow the safety instructions when using these items. Grounding the workbench is also a common practice in some lab
or work environments.
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Grounding wrist straps provide a place for the static to go before
it attacks a sensitive computer component. However, when working
on high voltage equipment, such as a power supply or a CRT
monitor, a wrist strap should not be used. The reason is that the
high amounts of voltage stored inside the capacitors could
discharge into the technician. A flow of electricity from a high voltage
device can be fatal.
Such benches have the surface grounded, so
there is no need for a grounding mat when computers and other
electronic devices requiring grounding are placed on them during
repairs.