[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content” sticky_enabled=”0″]<\/p>\n
The explosive range of gases and vapors is a key indicator of worker safety in ATEX zones. Indeed, managers of industrial sites with ATEX atmospheres often lack knowledge of the explosive limits of these substances. Knowing LELs and UELs<\/strong> is essential, but detecting their approach in real time is even more so. That’s why ATEX alarm systems use these values to trigger alarms before critical thresholds are reached. <\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content” sticky_enabled=”0″]<\/p>\n The explosive limit or flammable limit<\/strong> is the concentration of gas in air at which a combustible gas or vapor can ignite and possibly explode. The explosive range is characterized by the lower explosive limit (LEL)<\/strong> and the upper explosive limit (UEL<\/strong> ) .<\/strong> It is important to detect these limits before they occur. They can be detected by ATEX equipment such as horns<\/a> or warning lights. <\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content” sticky_enabled=”0″]<\/p>\n Also known as the Lower Flammable Limit (LFL<\/strong>), the LEL of a combustible gas or vapor is the minimum concentration above which the substance can be ignited. It is expressed as a % by volume in air. Below the LFL, the mixture is too fuel-poor to initiate any reaction. <\/p>\n Also known as the Upper Flammable Limit (UFL)<\/strong>, the UEL of a combustible gas or vapor is the maximum concentration below which the substance can be ignited. Like the LEL, it is expressed as a % by volume in air. Above the UEL, an oxidizer is needed to cause ignition or explosion. <\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content” sticky_enabled=”0″]<\/p>\n In ATEX atmospheres<\/strong>, it is essential to control gas and vapour concentrations outside the LEL\/LSE. <\/strong> <\/p>\n As the risk of explosion is more frequent, risk prevention is all the more important.<\/p>\n In accordance with the requirements of ATEX Directive 1999\/92\/EC <\/strong>on health and safety protection for workers exposed to ATEX risks, as an employer you are obliged to take all necessary measures to protect workers.<\/p>\n Here are some examples of security strategies to adopt:<\/p>\nLIE LSE: what do they consist of?<\/h2>\n
Lower explosive limit (LEL)<\/h3>\n
Upper explosive limit (UEL)<\/h3>\n
How to prevent the risk of explosion in ATEX atmospheres?<\/h2>\n
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