ATEX Compliance

What does ATEX stand for?

ATEX is an abbreviation for the Explosive Atmospheres Directive 99/92/EC (ATEX 137) which is enforced by the HSE and Local Authorities, Fire Brigades and Petroleum Licensing Authorities.

 

What is the significance of ATEX legislation?

ATEX and DSEAR (The Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations 2002) are a set of regulations designed to protect people from fires, explosive atmospheres and similar events arising from dangerous substances used in the workplace. Employers have a legal responsibility to provide their workers with protection in line with the requirements described by The ATEX and DSEAR Regulations.

ATEX legislation – Who does it affect?

The ATEX and DSEAR regulations apply to all employers and the self employed.

ATEX and DSEAR are applicable to many industries, but mostly impact the petrochemical industry offshore and onshore, petrol, flammable liquids, chemical manufacture, processing, the handling manufacture and storage of bulk powders and mining. Industries that have higher risk rates in relation to danger from explosive atmospheres, exothermic reactions and fire will need to adhere to these regulations.

How can PM PROjEN help you comply with The ATEX and DSEAR Regulations?

PM PROjEN has a specialised service to help employers and the self-employed assess their compliance needs. We have the knowledge required to provide our clients with real support, which guides them through the requirements of both the DSEAR and ATEX regulations and details the compliance requirements that relate directly to your company’s needs.

PM PROjEN Risk Assessment

PM PROjEN have a team of experienced engineers that are very knowledgeable about the requirements of both ATEX and DSEAR, with a track record of providing risk assessments for clients across all sectors. These DSEAR risk assessments include potentially explosive atmospheres relating to powders, dusts, flammable liquids or vapours.

PM PROjEN can help you with:

  • DSEAR risk assessment documentation and records related directly to ATEX & DSEAR compliance
  • Advice on Elimination and Mitigation of Risks
  • Design and Implementation of Explosion Prevention and Prevention Measures
  • Hazardous Area Classification and Drawings
  • Safety Training Related to Accidents, Incidents and Emergencies
  • Selection of Equipment according to the Equipment and Protective Systems Intended for use in Potentially Explosive Atmospheres Regulations.
  • Definition of the Basis for Safety for Potentially Dangerous Processes, Risk assessments of workplaces are required under the management of Health and Safety Work Regulations 1999

Who enforces the ATEX and DSEAR regulations?

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) enforce the regulations in Industrial Premises, with the regulations being enacted under the Health and Safety at work regulations 1974. Since June 2003 the HSE have issued numerous prohibition notices to businesses requiring action to conform to the ATEX and DSEAR regulations.

Petroleum Licensing Authorities, Insurance Companies, Fire Brigades, and Local Authorities are also closely involved in ensuring compliance.