Posted By Jim Flynn
Hi,
I have a client with such a plant, which is 20 years old. I've done an Explosion Protection Document as per guidelines - zoned the plant, etc. I find it difficult to get info on the practicalities of fire/explsion prevention, especially the application of ATEX regulations. Any info would be much appreciated.

Posted By Phillip
If your client is in the UK, the regulations do not require you to produce an Explosion Protection Document.

Explosion / fire prevention is about preventing the fire triangle forming by

avoiding a flammable atmos
and / or
eliminating ignition sources

hope that helps

Posted By Anthony Slinger
Is there some confusion over European directives (ATEX) and UK Regulations (DSEAR)?

DSEAR implements two European directives: -

Chemical Agents Directive (CAD) and Explosive Atmospheres Directive (ATEX137)

Whilst ATEX outlines minimum requirements of an Explosion Prevention Document to demonstrate explosive risks have been assessed and determined and adequate measures have been put into place, etc member states do not have to implement all of the directive, so in the UK we do not have to have an EPD per se but you will still need to demonstrate compliance to the UK regs by risk assessment, elimination or reduction of risks, area classification, equipment selection, etc,

Looking at Jim’s email it appears he is in Ireland where the requirement of an EPD is probably adopted by Regulation , I don’t know.

To answer the OP -

The HSE publication HSG 103 Safe handling of combustible dusts contains some good practical information.

Useful links: -

http://www.hse.gov.uk/food/dustexplosion.htm

http://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/fis12.pdf


Anthony