If you have ATEX compliance gaps, it might be worthwhile reviewing your area classification first.
ATEX is the name commonly given to the two European Directives for controlling explosive atmospheres:
1) Directive 99/92/EC (also known as ‘ATEX 137’ or the ‘ATEX Workplace Directive’) on minimum requirements for improving the health and safety protection of workers potentially at risk from explosive atmospheres.
2) Directive 2014/34/EU (also known as ‘ATEX 114’ or ‘the ATEX Equipment Directive’) on the approximation of the laws of Members States concerning equipment and protective systems intended for use in potentially explosive atmospheres.
We have worked with several sites in the past few years who have been looking to close their ATEX inspection gaps, but are unsure how accurate their area classification documentation is.
Codes and standards are often changing, which can lead to changes to the way zones are assessed and sized.
As part of our work in the process safety team we are able to offer review and update of clients hazardous area classification in line with current guidance. We have carried this out recently on:
💡 A large energy from waste plant in central Scotland, which hadn’t had a review in ca. 10 years since it was built.
💡 A large whisky cask handling and storage facility, which needed an update in line with 2021 British Standard guidance, as well as following some ventilation design changes.
💡 A continuous grain distillery, which needed an update based on improvements to ventilation systems in the intake and milling areas of the site.
💡 A new build distillery in Ireland who needed DSEAR (Explosion Protection Document) support for their new stillhouse operations.
By carrying out these reviews, we can often hone in on improvements that can be made to reduce zoned areas, as well as providing support to select the appropriate equipment for hazardous areas.
