Posted By Robert J Martin
Hi Folks
Does anybody have copy of the ACOP for DSEAR with specifics to the electrics. We have determined two areas a zone 2 area. We have LEV and gas detection, plus Zone 2 rated lighting. Can anybody tell us how much father we have to go. We use alcohol products twice a week @ 1000 litres each.

Would apreciate some advise as well as what do the HSE expect

Appreciate your input

regards

Rob

Posted By Mike Draper
Hi Rob

DSEAR doesn't really go into the sort of detail that you are looking at, and terms like ATEX don't help since there are 2 ATEX directives. DSEAR provides a framework for assessing and managing the risk and implements one of the ATEX directives.

Step 1 - evaluate the likelihood of a hazardous atmosphere forming and classify areas. You've done this as you have determined that you have 2 Zone 2 areas. This should be documented in calculations explaining the extent and affect of a release and a drawing of the extent of the Zones.

Step 2 - Prepare an ignition risk assessment for the equipment in the Zones. For a Zone 2 area you should be ensuring that there are no possible sources of ignition under normal operation. There are standards that can help you - BS EN 1127-1, BS EN 13463-1, BS EN 60079-0. These describe the requirements for ignition risk assessment and explosion protection for electrical and mechanical equipment in explosive gas atmospheres.

As a guide you can also refer to the DTI guidance for supply of equipment for use in hazardous areas under the Equipment and Protective Systems Intended For Use In Potentially Explosive Atmospheres Regs (EPS, for short)., DTI ref URN02/609, available on free download. This is the UK implementation of the other ATEX Directive.

If you install new equipment in these areas then it should be CE marked under the EPS regs and would probably fall into the Group II, Cat 3 range, but you will need more detail on gas groups and surface temperatures.

Mike