ESD protection stands for electrostatic discharge protection, which is the process of guarding sensitive electronic devices and components against the potentially damaging effects of electrostatic electricity. ESD is a sudden release of built-up static electricity that can damage electronic parts if not guarded against. ESD protection involves a broad range of products and techniques, including anti-static products, tools, clothing, working environments, staff training, and user behavior. ESD protection devices, also known as anti-static components, protect integrated circuits from being damaged by ESD. ESD prevention requires understanding the environment in which an electronic device is manufactured, handled, and used, and taking measures to reduce the likelihood of an event. Some of the measures include using ESD-safe devices, chairs, and other furnishings, ensuring all devices and machines are grounded, and using appropriate ESD-safe packing material. Manufacturers and users of integrated circuits must take precautions to avoid ESD, and ESD prevention can be part of the device itself and include special design techniques for device input and output pins.