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What is the ATEX standard?
ATEX, does that ring a bell? Behind this acronym lies strict regulations to prevent explosions in industrial environments. If you work in a hazardous environment, understanding ATEX regulations, zoning of explosive atmospheres, and equipment marking is essential. Zones 0, 1, 2? Certified or not? Don't take any risks. Here's everything you need to know to secure your facilities and protect your teams.
What does ATEX mean?
The acronym ATEX comes from the French term "ATmosph res EXplosibles". It designates a European regulatory framework aimed at preventing explosion risks in industrial environments where mixtures of flammable gases, vapors, dusts, or mists are present.
In industry, certain activities generate explosive atmospheres (ATEX), i.e., mixtures of air and flammable substances that can ignite upon contact with an ignition source. Without appropriate measures, a simple spark or hot surface can cause an explosion, endangering workers and facilities.
ATEX regulations are based on two major European directives:
- Directive 1999/92/EC: This requires employers to identify ATEX zones, assess risks, and implement preventive measures.
- Directive 2014/34/EU: This governs the design and certification of ATEX equipment intended for use in explosive atmospheres.
These directives guarantee optimal safety by requiring companies to comply with strict standards, such as the EN 60079-10 standard, which defines zoning criteria.
How ATEX zones are categorized: zones 0, 1, 2 and zones 20, 21, 22
The classification of ATEX zones is based on the frequency and duration of exposure to an explosive atmosphere. This classification makes it possible to determine the level of risk and adapt preventive measures. There are two broad categories: areas associated with flammable gases, vapors, and mists, and those associated with combustible dusts.
ATEX zones for flammable gases and vapors
| Zone 0: Permanent danger |
| Zone 1: Danger Occasional |
| Zone 2: Rare Hazard |
- Zone 0: An explosive atmosphere is present continuously, for long periods, or frequently. This type of zone is typical of tanks, reservoirs, and sealed enclosures containing volatile substances.
- Zone 1: An explosive atmosphere may occur occasionally during normal operation. These conditions are found in areas near valves, pumps, and industrial fittings.
- Zone 2: Explosive atmospheres occur only exceptionally and temporarily. This classification applies to areas adjacent to storage facilities and distribution systems.
ATEX zones for combustible dusts
| Zone 20: Permanent danger |
| Area 21: Occasional danger |
| Area 22: Rare Danger |
- Zone 20: An explosive atmosphere in the form of a dust cloud is present continuously or for a prolonged period. This type of environment is found in grain storage silos or industrial mills.
- Zone 21: An explosive atmosphere may occur during normal operation, particularly around equipment handling combustible powders.
- Zone 22: An explosive atmosphere is rare and only lasts briefly. This classification is found in areas where dust can temporarily accumulate, such as around conveyor belts or crushers.
Which professions are affected by ATEX regulations?
ATEX regulations apply to all professionals exposed to explosive atmospheres, whether flammable gases, vapors, or combustible dusts. It primarily concerns the petrochemical, chemical, agri-food, waste treatment, pharmacy, and metallurgy sectors.
Engineers, maintenance technicians, production operators, welders, and HSE managers must incorporate these requirements to ensure a safe working environment. Storage silos, wastewater treatment plants, chemical plants, and production sites handle substances that can form an explosive atmosphere, requiring ATEX-certified equipment and appropriate protocols.
Complying with ATEX standards ensures worker safety and facility compliance. A good understanding of ATEX marking and classification zones allows you to choose the right equipment and avoid any risk of explosion.
Standards for workwear suitable for ATEX zones
The protective clothing used in ATEX zones must meet specific standards to ensure worker safety. The aim is to limit the risks associated with explosive atmospheres, whether electrostatic discharges, flames, or projections of hazardous materials.
EN 1149-5 Standard: Protection against electrostatic charges
A spark can be enough to trigger an explosion in the presence of flammable gases or dust. The EN 1149-5 standard ensures that clothing effectively dissipates static electricity, thus preventing any buildup of dangerous electrostatic charge.
Are you an electrician and don't know how to equip yourself? We have prepared for you the list of mandatory PPE for electricians.
EN ISO 11612 Standard: Resistance to heat and flames
In sectors exposed to high temperatures, such as petrochemicals and industry chemical, clothing must provide thermal protection. The EN ISO 11612 standard governs the resistance of fabrics to flames, convective and radiant heat projections, and molten metal splashes.
EN ISO 11611 Standard: Safety for welders
Welding activities and work involving molten metal splashes require enhanced protection. The EN ISO 11611 standard ensures that clothing is resistant to small splashes of molten metal and brief contact with a flame, thus reducing the risk of burns.
To help you choose your next protective clothing for welding, we have produced a guide to help you understand what protective clothing a welder should wear.
IEC 61482-2 Standard: Protection against electric arcs
Workers working on electrical installations must protect themselves against the thermal effects of electric arcs. The IEC 61482-2 standard certifies that clothing provides an effective barrier against these risks, limiting burns and other serious injuries.
EN 13034 Standard: Protection against liquid chemicals
In industries handling hazardous substances, clothing must limit the risk of chemical splashes. The EN 13034 standard applies to protective equipment against small splashes of liquid chemicals, providing additional safety for exposed workers.
Choosing clothing that complies with ATEX standards is essential for limiting the risks associated with explosive atmospheres. Combined with certified equipment and appropriate procedures, this clothing guarantees better protection for workers working in hazardous areas.
