The HSE pages on ATEX equipment have been updated in recent days, giving timely guidance on the use of electricity in potentially explosive atmospheres.
ATEX equipment comes with a certificate, clearly marking that it offers explosion protection, and which type of environment and atmosphere it is suitable for use in.
This is all in accordance with The Equipment and Protective Systems Intended for Use in Potentially Explosive Atmospheres Regulations 1996 and the European ATEX Directive.
In a related ATEX FAQ page, the HSE explains that the EPS regulations place a duty on manufacturers and suppliers to mark their hazardous area equipment appropriately.
“These markings are in addition to the CE and Ex marks required,” the HSE advises. “Users have a duty to classify their workplaces and utilise equipment suitable for that area.”
Ultimately, the overall duty is shared between manufacturers accurately labelling their hazardous area equipment, and end-users selecting the appropriate ATEX equipment for the job.
Together, this enables the industry, and those working in hazardous areas, to put in place the safeguards required to avoid any catastrophic explosive incidents during the years to come.