Posted By Robert Randall
Would anybody out there agree that the combined effect of DSEAR and ATEX will have a significant cost impact on some small businesses depending on how they classify their zones.

My understanding is that any electrical appliance, pump or heat/friction producing assembly in a zone 1 area must be ATEX approved but that anything in a zone 2 does not require ATEX approval.

By way of example let's take a small bunkering service at the local docks. There is storage for 18,000 litres of gas oil, 15,000 litres of DERV and 36,000 litres of kerosene. The storage is to all intents and purposes in the open air (open ended shed) and any decanting is done straight into tankers from an overhead gantry delivery system.

My view is that in this situation, i.e. given the nature of the fuel and the fact that the area is not enclosed, an explosive atmosphere is unlikely to arise. I would therefore classify this as zone 2.

If however it is classified as zone 1 my understanding is that all of the pumps and ancilliary equipment in this area must be replaced. If this is so the financial impact will probably force some companies out of business.

Any experience of this issue or constructive comments would be appreciated.

Posted By Winsley
Diesel as such is very little to worry about. It isn't usually classed as flammable etc, as its flash point is usually quoted as being above 55*C.

It is only a potential problem if it can be sprayed/atomised and hot surfaces etc are also present (or flames/burners etc.)

Understanding the properties of the substances is a major factor in applying DSEAR properly.

You will need the relevant details for kerosene.

I would strongly suggest you obtain a copy of the Insitute of Petroleum Guide IP Pt15, as this covers the correctclassification procedure for fuel bunkering/dispensing and tank facilities and road tankers etc.

BS60079 Pt10 is also very useful

Regardless of your idea that DSEAR/ATEX is too expensive for small businesses etc, why should the protection given to employees in small companies be any less then for employees of the larger oil companies at an oil refinery etc. Surely their safety has equal value?

Any employer should know the risks of their business and act accordingly.

Posted By Pete48
Robert, how long has the installation been in use? Who designed it and to what standards? What fuels was it designed for? What zoning arrangements were established in that design? Is it still being used as designed? The science and physics of handling and storing hydrocarbon fuels has not changed has it?

If the installation does not meet standards, it does not matter where it is or by whom it is operated.

The risk to SME is that they will be confused by the technicality of this type of regulation and then take advice from those who are not competent in these areas.

Posted By Winsley
Its not just about flash points, though.

IP PT15 also considers the likely release frequencies of product per year and also the liklihood of somebody being in the area (occupancy).

IP guide is the recognised standard to work to for this type of facility, ignore it at your peril, if you really want to cover your rear end......


Depending upon the ventilation of the facilities, what you think is Zone 2, could be uprated to Zone 1.