info@riskman.info  
   
 


RISK MANAGEMENT FOR EQUIPMENT USED IN EXPLOSIVE ATMOSPHERES - INTRODUCTION

The ATEX Directive 94/9/EC requires that all measures shall be take to ensure that equipment used in explosive atmospheres does not endanger persons, domestic animals or property. This is to be achieved by meeting the Essential Requirements of the Directive in Annex II. A risk assessment is mandatory.

The manufacturer must take measures to:

  • Prevent the formation of explosive atmospheres ( if possible) and
  • Prevent ignition by electrical and non-electrical sources and
  • In the event of an explosion, limit its effects to provide sufficient safety.

EN 1127-1:1998 provides the basic concepts and methods for explosion prevention and protection. This standard requires that a risk assessment be carried out in accordance with EN1050, considering

  • Hazard identification (considering flammability and ease of ignition)
  • The likelihood of an explosive atmosphere
  • The likelihood of an ignition source
  • The Effects of an explosion

The risk has then to be evaluated and the measures to minimise this risk determined.

EN 1127-1 provides guidance on what to consider during the risk assessment and on measures to be taken to eliminate or minimize the risk. It is an essential document for anyone conducting a risk assessment to the ATEX Directive.

Read the ATEX Directive and related harmonised standards before putting together the documentation for conformance. David Baker can assist in putting these documents together, if required.

EN 1050 :1996 - principles of risk assessment is currently the Harmonised European Standard which specifies the risk assessment procedure to be taken.

Refer to EN 1127-1:1998 and Annex A to EN 1050 for guidance on what should be included


Definitions used in Risk Assessment
Refer to EN 1050 for full and complete definitions

Harm

Physical injury and/or damage to the health or property

Hazard

Source of possible injury or damage to health

Hazardous Event

Event that can cause harm

Risk

Combination of the probability and the degree of harm P*S

Risk Assessment

A comprehensive estimation of the risk in order to select appropriate safety measures

Risk Evaluation

Judgement, on the basis of the risk analysis, of whether a risk is acceptable.

Risk Control

Process for implementing measures to reduce and maintain risks within specified levels.

Safety Measure

Means that eliminates a hazard or reduces a risk



THE EN 1050 RISK ASSESSMENT PROCESS INCORPORATING EN 1127-1

Risk
Assesment
Hazard Identification & Explosive Properties
Probability of an Explosive Amosphere
 
Probability of Ignition
Risk Evaluation
 
Eliminate or Minimise Risks

For further information and free advice please complete our form

 

tel: +44 (0) 1380 848170      fax: +44 (0) 1380 840152      david.baker@riskman.info