ATEX - the countdown to compliance
A
Sira product story
Edited by the Engineeringtalk editorial team
Apr 14, 2003
Sira Test and Certification summarises both ATEX Directives and the requirements of each.
From 1st July 2003, compliance with ATEX Directive 94/9/EC becomes mandatory.
Compliance with certain aspects of ATEX Directive 1999/92/EC also becomes mandatory from the same date.
Both directives are complementary and although they both address the same risks they are aimed at different sectors.
Equipment manufacturers, users, operators and systems integrators will all need to ensure that they are fully aware of the new requirements.
The ATEX 100a (94/9/EC) Directive (equipment and protective systems intended for use in potentially explosive atmospheres) applies to both electrical and non-electrical equipment, protective systems, components and safety devices intended for use in potentially explosive atmospheres, both below and above ground level and on fixed offshore installations.
Responsibility for conformance is placed with the manufacturer of the product.
The aim of the directive is to remove the need for documentation and testing for each individual European member state and therefore facilitate the free movement of goods within the EU.
Manufacturers must design products to prevent the formation or ignition of explosive atmospheres.
Manufacturers must take account of all electrical and non-electrical source of ignition.
Equipment falling into one of the five specified categories must be subjected to the relevant conformity assessment procedures detailed within the directive.
The ATEX 137 (1999/92/EC) Directive (improving the safety and health protection of workers potentially at risk from explosive atmospheres) is concerned with the safety and health protection of workers.
Responsibility for conformance with the directive is placed with the employer.
The directive intends to ensure that workers enjoy a minimum level of protection throughout all member states.
The employer must carry out a risk assessment of explosion risks.
The workplace must be classified into zones (where applicable).
ATEX 100a products must be selected according to zone.
An explosion protection document (EPD) must be prepared.
Locations where explosive atmospheres may occur are to be identified using a warning sign.
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