Dissipative anti-static table mat
Our workbenches for tape reels are metal surfaces. We ground both the machine and the workbench, is this ok, will it be a problem if we put our components on a metal workbench surface?
First off, your machine and bench need to be grounded, and you guys do a great job of that.
This can be problematic if you have static sensitive components placed on metal surfaces, especially if they are heavily charged with static electricity. In this case, it doesn't matter if the metal surface is grounded or not, because metal is very conductive and any charge on the device will be released to the metal, seeking an equalization of potential. Resulting ESD events can damage components.
The best way to solve the "live equipment model problem" (very conductive work surfaces) is to replace them or cover them with a dissipative work surface such as a good dissipative anti-static bench mat. For example, our Class A Anti-Static Desk Mat would be a good choice. By controlling the rate of discharge (the whole purpose of ESD control), you can protect sensitive equipment from ESD.