Telephone helpline for new Atex regulations

Telephone helpline established to help users of motors find information on compliance with Atex regulations due to be introduced this summer.

Many motor users are inadequately prepared for the Atex regulations that are due to be introduced this summer, according to Brian Austick, Product Specialist for LV motors, at ABB.

"In particular, we find that users that have hazardous atmospheres with combustible dust are behind in their preparations", he said.

"This includes industries with wood dust, as well as those handling flour and grain, for instance bakeries and breweries".

ABB is launching a panic line ahead of the summer's Atex implementation.

The service is primarily aimed at ABB's customers but will also be available to other motor users.

It is based around a dedicated mobile number, 07802 923649, available round the clock, which will be answered by one of ABB's experts on Atex.

Users can get advice about the steps they need to take to achieve Atex compliance.

"The reason for the lower level of awareness in industries dealing with combustible dust is that these were never included under the old regulations", Austick said.

"By contrast, the oil and gas industries, which have worked with hazardous areas for years, are well advanced in their preparations".

By 1st July, users have to install Atex approved equipment in all hazardous areas, or alternatively carry out a risk assessment on the old equipment.

Atex is being implemented to protect employees, the public and the environment from accidents owing to explosive atmospheres.

Atex 137 covers the responsibilities of end users to prevent accidents due to hazardous atmosphere occurring on their premises.

Atex 95 was implemented in 2003 and covers the responsibilities of manufacturers to supply equipment offering varying degrees of protection to suit a particular level of hazard.

With Atex 137 being finally implemented this summer, the user will be fully responsible for the safety of equipment in hazardous areas on the site.

Some of the responsibility can be delegated to the equipment manufacturers, if these have the relevant documentation.

The safety manager of the plant is personally responsible for site safety and the penalties for negligence can be severe.

Essentially, the employer is required to take all reasonable measures to prevent the formation of an explosive atmosphere in the workplace.

Where this is not possible, measures must be taken to avoid the ignition of any potentially explosive atmosphere.

In addition, the effects of any explosion must be reduced in such a way that workers are not put at risk.

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