An atmospheric explosion could have any number of causes. Flammable gases, mists, vapours, or dust in the air — invisible to the human eye, can be fatal if they come into close contact with an ignition source, such as a spark or ember. The resulting high-pressure airwave can cause devastation or fatalities within a workplace, so it is essential that employers understand the requirements for controlling the risks in ATEX hazardous areas.
We’ve put together this article to explain the different zone classifications and why it is required for employers to comply with The Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations 2002 (DSEAR) legislation.
What Is Area Classification and Its Zones?
Area classification is a rigorous method used to recognise which areas present a low or high risk of an explosive atmosphere. The purpose of this is to be able to implement safety measures within the workplace.
Zone 0
Zone 0 is an extremely high-risk area, as the risk of an explosive gas atmosphere is ever-present and for long periods. A good example of where Zone 0 may apply would be a chemical or petrochemical plant, so If you operate in an area classified as Zone 0 or zone 1, you’ll need to implement the following practices to ensure the safety of your workers:
- Thorough regularly cleaning the workplace
- Workplace areas should be well-lit with ATEX-approved lighting to ensure that build ups of dust are not missed
- Training your employees or contractors will help them understand where dust explosions might occur, how to prevent them, and what to do in an emergency
- Install ATEX-approved air conditioning, which is specially designed to prevent materials or equipment from overheating or being affected by cold temperatures.
Zone 1
Zone 1 is still an extremely high-risk area. However, the risk of an explosion is more likely to appear in normal operating conditions and may just be occasional. This may still apply to chemical industries.
Zone 2
Zone 2 is an area where an explosion is not likely to occur. However, if an explosion does happen, it will only be for a short period. A good example of where zone 2 may apply is within the food industry when dust is present in the air from foods such as flour, coffee, potato powder and milk powder.
What Is DSEAR?
DSEAR is the Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations 2002. DSEAR is a legal requirement for all employers to ensure that measurements have been put in place to protect the employees and the workplace. From 2015, DSEAR now also covers gases under pressure and substances that are corrosive to metals.
DSEAR Has the Following Legal Requirements for All Employers:
- Employers must explore any possible dangerous substances in the workplace and what the risks are
- Implement control measures to remove any possible risks or control them
- Prepare any plans and procedures that can contend with accidents, incidents and emergencies involving dangerous substances
- Ensure that employees are properly informed about and trained to control or deal with dangerous risks
- Classify areas where high-risk explosive atmospheres may occur and avoid any potential ignition sources
Atmospheric explosions are no joke
It is vital to ensure that the right equipment and protocols are in place to reduce the risks of explosions and to keep you, your employees and visitors safe on site.
Since 2015, ATEX Online has supplied ATEX-certified products, equipment, tools and accessories for a wide range of industries — including those in the oil, gas, mining and chemical sectors. We work with established partners who offer only the best options on the market.
Want to learn more about how we can ensure the safety of your workplace? Get in touch with us today and we’ll supply all the information you need to improve site safety.