ATEX and industrial ventilation: guaranteeing safety and compliance in high-risk environments

In environments where there is a risk of explosion, safety is paramount. The ATEX directive (ATmosphères EXplosives) plays a crucial role in protecting workers and installations. At SEAT Ventilation, all our air extractors are available in ATEX (zone 2) versions.

The responsibility for defining ATEX zones (explosive atmospheres) lies with the operator or site safety manager, in compliance with standards and regulations, such as the European Union's ATEX Directive.

Ventilation plays a crucial role in the prevention and control of explosive atmospheres.

It contributes to:

• Diluting concentrations of explosive gases, vapors or dusts
• Keeping concentrations below the lower explosive limit (LEL)
• Evacuating hazardous substances from the workspace
• Controlling temperature and humidity to prevent conditions conducive to explosions.

The application of these standards is essential in the design and implementation of industrial ventilation systems. Here are our tips for safe, compliant ventilation.

6 tips for your ATEX ventilation system

Installing ATEX-compliant ventilation systems requires a multi-dimensional approach. Before choosing the type of fan you require, please consider the following:

1. Risk analysis

A thorough risk assessment is the crucial first step. You must first identify potential sources of explosion, assess the probability and consequences of an explosion, and determine the necessary control measures

2. Equipment selection

All components of the ventilation system must be ATEX-certified for the specific zone in which they will be installed. This includes fans, motors, ducts, filters and control devices.

3. Aerodynamic designs

The design must ensure efficient air circulation to eliminate or dilute explosive atmospheres. This may involve complex calculations of air flow, pressure and velocity.

4. Materials and construction

The use of antistatic or conductive materials is essential to prevent the build-up of static electricity. Construction must also take account of pressure resistance in the event of an explosion. This is the case with our fans, which are available in ATEX (zone 2) versions, i.e. in carbon-impregnated polypropylene.

5. Integrating safety devices

Incorporating devices such as check valves; explosion suppression systems and discharge panels is crucial to mitigating the consequences of a potential explosion.

Installation of SEAT 35 ATEX with roof kit on the roof of a petrochemical plant in Marseille (France).

Maintenance and inspection of ATEX systems

ATEX compliance doesn't stop with installation. A maintenance and inspection program are essential:

• Regular inspections: Visual and functional checks of critical components.
• Performance tests: Periodic assessment of ventilation system efficiency.
• Instrument calibration: Regular adjustment of detectors and sensors.
• Cleaning: Specific procedures to prevent the accumulation of dust or flammable residues.
• Record keeping: Documentation of maintenance and inspection activities.

Training and skills

Safety in ATEX zones also relies on the competence of personnel. A comprehensive training program should cover:

• Understanding ATEX principles and associated risks
• Safe work procedures in classified areas
• Correct use of personal protective equipment (PPE)
• Recognizing signs of ventilation system malfunction
• Emergency and evacuation procedures.
• Innovations and Future Trends

The field of ATEX ventilation continues to evolve with technological advances:

• IoT and Remote Monitoring: Integration of connected sensors for realtime monitoring and predictive maintenance.
• Advanced Materials: Development of new materials offering improved strength and antistatic properties.
• CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) Modeling: Use of advanced simulations to optimize the design of ventilation systems.

Understanding ATEX

The ATEX Directive is the result of European legislation and establishes a regulatory framework for equipment intended for use in potentially explosive atmospheres. It consists of two main directives:

Directive 99/92/EC (ATEX 137): concerns minimum safety requirements to improve the protection of workers who may be exposed to the risks of explosive atmospheres.

Directive 2014/34/EU (ATEX 114): Governs equipment and protective systems intended for use in potentially explosive atmospheres.

These directives define employers' obligations, equipment selection criteria and certification procedures necessary to guarantee safety in hazardous areas.

Installation of SEAT 35 ATEX on the roof of a petrochemical plant in Vietnam.

ATEX zone classification

ATEX establishes a classification of hazardous zones, essential for determining appropriate safety measures.

• Gas zones:

Zone 0: Explosive atmosphere present continuously or for long periods.

Zone 1: Explosive atmosphere likely to form occasionally during normal operation.

Zone 2: Explosive atmosphere unlikely to form during normal operation, and if it does form, is present for only a short period.

ATEX zone illustration

Conclusion

ATEX compliance in industrial ventilation is a complex but crucial area for worker safety and plant protection. At SEAT Ventilation, we offer ventilation solutions that not only comply with ATEX standards, but also anticipate the needs of industry. Don't hesitate to seek professional advice for the design, installation and maintenance of your ventilation system, whether ATEX-compliant or not.

For more information, our control and regulation experts can advise you on +33561698443 or info@seat-ventilation.com.