The abbreviation ATEX (ATmospheres EXplosibles) refers to two European directives relating to the explosion risk in several areas:
- ATEX Directive (94/9/EC) covers the requirements for equipment intended for use in potentially explosive atmospheres. The manufacturer must meet these requirements and mark its products with certain categories.
- ATEX Directive (99/92/EC) concerning the minimum safety and health that you must meet when working in areas at risk of explosion.
An explosive atmosphere, means an atmosphere that develops in an explosive manner due to changes in environment or as a consequence of use.
An explosive atmosphere consists of air and combustible materials such as gases, vapors, spray or dust material, in which the explosion propagates after ignition (typical industrial processing: handling of cereals, paper, wood, chemicals, plastic ...) .
The ATEX directive provides for two types of atmospheres: gas and dust.
The above areas are each divided into three zones, namely:
zones 0, 1 and 2 refer to gas and zones 20, 21 and 22 refer to dust.
Zone 0 / 20: Constant Danger
Permanent presence of explosive gases or combustible dust. Minimum of category 1.
Zone 1 / 21: Potential danger
The occasional presence of explosive gases or combustible dust during normal operation. Minimum of category 2.
Zone 2 / 22: Minor danger
Presence of explosive gases or combustible dust is unlikely or only for a short period of time. Minimum of category 3.
The ATEX directive has no retroactive effect, however existing products have to be properly examined. In the presence of defects such as wear, your old product will be replaced with equipment compliant with the ATEX directive.
Our company is able to assist in the design and construction of facilities to be used in explosive risk areas.
For more information please contact us.
Atex