Explosion protection (ATEX)

There is a risk of explosion at all companies that work with combustible gases, liquids or powders. Powders, gases, sprays or fumes can form an explosive atmosphere if they mix with the oxygen in the air. Explosions can pose considerable dangers to employees due to:

  • fire (jet flames or flame fronts)
  • pressure
  • flying debris
  • poisonous substances which can be released during an explosion
  • a lack of oxygen in a specific work area

 

ATEX regulations

Explosions occur more often than you would think. There are even explosions that occur several times a year which are disastrous, causing loss of lives and considerable economic damage. This is why it’s so important to make sure that your company complies with all legislation and regulations.

ATEX regulations are divided into two parts:

  1. For manufacturers (Explosion-proof Materials (Commodities Act) Decree)
    Under the ATEX 95 Directive, manufacturers are obliged to ensure that machinery and protective systems to be used in areas where there is a risk of explosion are explosion-proof when designing and assembling them.
  2. For employers (Working Conditions Decree)
    Under the ATEX 137 Directive (1999/92/EC), which is incorporated into the Working Conditions Decree, employers are obliged to have the explosion risks assessed.


You can read all the details of these two directives on the following pages:

  • ATEX 95 Directive
  • ATEX 137 Directive

D&F helps you implement ATEX

D&F can provide you with top-quality support from experts when implementing ATEX to make your company explosion-proof. This support consists of advice, coaching, supportive software and ATEX training courses. 

Supportive software to ensure explosion protection

  • Safety Standards Database: this processes all the relevant standards relating to machine safety, electrical safety and explosion protection;
  • Safety Control with ATEX module: unique control package which you can use to carry out all the work (risk assessment, action plan, bundling explosion safety documents, zoning plans).

Explosion protection training courses

  • ATEX 95 training course  
  • ATEX 137 training course
  • ATEX Master Class: 8-day explosion protection training course

ATEX trilogy (free of charge)

  • TIP: Ask us to send you the handy ATEX information booklet (pocket size).
    Note: this handy booklet is only available in Dutch!