To be able to work in an ATEX zone, employees must have ATEX authorization. This corresponds to the hazard level of the zone in which they may or may not be working, and to the type of electrical or mechanical equipment used.
How doesATEX certification work? How is it obtained? What are the different levels to which it gives access? ADF Systèmes, experts in industrial safety, takes a closer look at this key authorization.
What is ATEX clearance?
ATEX (Atmosphères Explosibles) certification is compulsory for workers in areas where explosive atmospheres can form, to ensure their safety and prevent the risk of explosion. It involves specific training on the hazards, safety procedures and equipment needed to work safely in such environments.
To obtain this precious sesame, workers must first undergo ATEX training with an approved organization. At the end of this training, he or she obtains an ATEX authorization certificate based on the INERIS ISM-ATEX standard. Workers can choose to be qualified to work in level 0, level 1 or level 2 zones.
In all cases, the aim of ATEX training is to teach personnel to understand the ATEX regulations regulations and apply them to limit the risks associated with ATEX atmospheres.
The ATEX authorization certificate is valid for 3 years. At the end of this period, the authorized person must undergo refresher training.
What are the different levels of danger in ATEX zones?
It is the employer’s responsibility to demarcate explosive atmosphere zoneswhether dusty or gaseous.
In fact, the ATEX Directive classifies these zones into several levels between 0, 1 and 2, which indicate a degree of danger that is permanent, potential or almost non-existent:
- ATEX Zone 0: permanent or long-term hazard (1000 h/year) in atmospheres containing flammable substances in gas, vapor and/or mist form.
- ATEX zone level 20 : permanent or long-term hazard (1000 h/year) in dusty atmospheres liable to combustion.
- ATEX level 1 zone: potential and occasional danger (between 10 and 1000 h/year) due to direct proximity to an ATEX level 0 zone or opening systems.
- ATEX level 21 zone: potential and occasional danger (between 10 and 1000 h/year) because of direct proximity to a level 20 zone or opening systems.
- ATEX level 2 zone : minimal and exceptional danger (less than 10 h/year) as it is generally located on the periphery of level 0 and 1 zones.
- ATEX level 22 zone : minimal and exceptional danger (less than 10 h/year) as it is located on the periphery of level 20 and 21 zones.
What does ATEX certification for work in explosive zones entail?
ATEX certification level 0 / 20
This is the highest level of authorization for personnel working in hazardous areas. It includes operators, administrative staff, subcontractors and workers who are in direct contact with the zone but do not operate on ATEX-certified machines and equipment.
Note: Holders of level 0 clearance can access ATEX zones 1 and 2.
ATEX certification level 1 / 21
The second level of authorization enables authorized personnel to work in level 1 zones and to operate on ATEX equipment. There are two options for Level 1 clearance:
- Electrical option: for maintenance technicians and operatives required to carry out operations on ATEX level 1 or 2 electrical equipment.
- Mechanical option: for maintenance technicians and operatives carrying out operations on ATEX level 1 or 2 mechanical equipment.
ATEX certification level 2 / 22
The second level of clearance enables supervisory staff to manage operatives working on level 2 ATEX equipment. As with level 1 clearance, there are two options:
- Electrical option (2E): for supervisory staff (site foremen, technicians, engineers, etc.) who have to lead operatives in ATEX zones during operations on level 2 equipment and materials.
- Mechanical option (2M): for supervisory staff (site foreman, technician, engineer, etc.) who have to manage operatives in ATEX zones during operations on level 2 mechanical equipment and materials.
Would you like to find out more about the different levels of ATEX clearance?
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