What are ATEX and DSEAR Inspections?
The ATEX – ATmosphères EXplosibles – Directive is a European Union regulation that defines the essential health and safety requirements for equipment and protective systems in a potentially explosive atmosphere.
ATEX Directives
There are two primary ATEX directives;
- ATEX 114 equipment directive applies to manufacturers specifying standards for the equipment used in explosive atmospheres.
- ATEX 153 worker safety directive focuses on the safety of workers and applies to employers mandating risk assessments and safety measures for explosive hazards
The DSEAR directive is a UK-specific regulation that stands for dangerous substances and explosive atmospheres regulations. It is intended to be aligned with ATEX but focuses on protecting people from risks related to explosive atmospheres within the UK.
ATEX / DSEAR INSPECTIONS
F.E.S. (EX) originates from the Hazardous Area arena and built its reputation on ATEX / DSEAR Inspections; our experienced & highly qualified engineers have the proven skills to conduct Ex inspections of Electrical, Instrument & Mechanical equipment located within explosive atmospheres.
It is vital hazardous area inspections are carried out, in order to support your business in complying with current legislation such as ATEX, IEC, & NEC i.e. EN 60079, Article 500.
Explosive atmospheres occur in the form of Dusts, Gases, Mists & Vapours and can be present across many different sectors such as Chemical, Pharmaceutical, Oil & Gas, Food and Drink, etc, and F.E.S. (EX identifies if the equipment within these atmospheres comply with ATEX / DSEAR regulations through carrying out ATEX / DSEAR Inspections.
Types of Inspection:
Initial inspection: Required by IEC 60079-14 to be undertaken at detailed grade prior to the items being brought into service.
Periodic Inspections for Fixed Installations: The grade of inspection (visual, close or detailed) and the frequency of an Ex inspection is determined by considering various elements such as manufacturer’s guidance, deterioration factors, the zone of use and the results from any previous inspections.
The interval between periodic inspections shall not exceed three years without a documented risk assessment being carried out by an independent expert, such as F.E.S (EX).
Periodic Inspections for Transportable personal and portable equipment: These items (such as ATEX Certified torches, radios, personal gas detectors etc.) are subject to damage or misuse therefore the interval between periodic inspections are reduced.
BS EN IEC 60079-17 specifies a visual check before each use and a periodic inspection (not exceeding these timeframes without seeking advice from the manufacturer and Technical Person with Executive Function) at least every 12 months and frequently opened enclosures shall be given a detailed inspection at least every 6 months
Sample Inspection: The grade of inspection visual, close or detailed or a combination or grades can be used to monitor for example environmental effects.
Grades of Inspections:
Visual inspections take note of all defects which can be determined visually either from the ground or from permanent access platforms and which are apparent to the eye. A Visual inspection is the least intrusive grade as the equipment remains live and no hand tools are used.
Close inspections determine where any defects, including visual, may be detected without the removal of power. This may involve the use of some tools, ladders and other access equipment.
Detailed inspections are carried out on completion of the installation (initial detailed inspection), when it has been handed over by the installation contractor, and prior to the equipment being commissioned. They are also carried out on a sample basis and follow the isolation of power. Detailed inspections are also compulsory following modification to plant and its wiring or for example any other invasive works.
It encompasses aspects covered in a close inspection but goes further by identifying defects such as loose terminations which are only apparent by opening up the item of equipment/enclosure or where necessary utilising tools and test equipment.
Our Inspectors
Our inspectors meet the required qualifications and competencies for ATEX and DSEAR directives, including formal CompEx training programs that cover the installation, maintenance and inspection of equipment used in an explosive atmosphere.
It is a vital importance to us that our inspectors undergo ongoing training and skill updates to stay current with regulatory changes and new technologies.
F.E.S. (EX) Inspectors have the relevant competencies such as:
- CompEx Ex01 – Ex04
- CompEx Ex05-Ex06 (or equivalent)
- CompEx Ex11
Our engineering team has NEBOSH, CompEx Ex01-Ex04, Ex05-Ex06, Ex11 and Ex12 qualifications.
Why use F.E.S (EX) Ltd?
We can inspect Electrical Instrumentation and Mechanical equipment, utilising our own custom-built software, ExTraceⓇ.
By using our own software, we can provide rectifications at time of Inspections – so we don’t just leave you a list of faults and then leave – we provide the full end-to-end service.
We also provide detailed work packages of any NCR’s allowing us or a third party to see what needs fixing.
Our Ex12 expertise within the engineering team for selection/design verification allows us to provide solutions for different parts of the asset life cycle. With this experience at our disposal, we are able to supplement your existing site engineering/incumbent contractor teams.
F.E.S (EX) Ltd is also part of the CompEx technical Committee as well as Energy Institute members and contributors to module codes of safe practice (ACOPS).
As well as our inspection services, we can also provide training courses to develop your own personnel and offer support with HSE interventions.
Get in touch with F.E.S. (EX) today to discuss your inspection requirements