SubscribeEven the most unlikely everyday materials have the potential of causing an explosive atmosphere. Industries that manufacture, store or distribute potentially flammable materials will be affected as a result of the ATEX Directives that came into force on the 1st July 2003.
These industries may include petrochemical, chemical, pharmaceutical, gas cylinder and aerosol filling and storage, manufacture and storage of solvents, paints, adhesives, explosives, varnishes, inks, alcohols, perfumes, food and flavours, cosmetics, etc.
ATEX 1999/92/EC is the EU Directive that focuses on improving the safety of workers at risk from potentially explosive atmospheres (transposed within DSEAR 2002 in the UK). Under these regulations employers have a number of obligations.
- Carry out a risk assessment of any work activities involving dangerous substances
- Classify places where explosive atmospheres may occur into Zones and mark the Zones where necessary
- Provide measures to eliminate or reduce risks as far as is reasonably practicable
- Ensure that areas classified into Zones are protected from sources of ignition by selecting ATEX 94/9/EC compliant equipment, although equipment already is use before July 2003 can continue to be used, provided the risk assessment shows it is safe to do so.
Forklift trucks intended for use within formally classified areas (zone 1, 2, 21 or 22) must meet the requirements of these Directives.
Pyroban is the leading supplier of ATEX compliant explosion proof solutions for all makes of diesel and electric fork lift trucks. In addition, the systems focus on retaining original ergonomics, truck performance, and minimising service maintenance requirements and lifetime cost.
