The employer must minimise the risks to their employees due to fire explosions or similar events. A potentially explosive atmosphere can develop from the release of gases, vapours, mists or dusts, which can occur in many different sectors of industry here are a few examples:
Petrochemical industry, perhaps the most obvious but also one of the industries carrying the most significant risk Buncefield is a clear example of risks present in refineries and bulk fuel storage facilities, releases of hydrocarbons in the form of vapours and mist’s is the main concern.
Food Processing Industry, many organic materials will combust, wheat, flour and sugar are three typical examples. Dust Clouds and Dust layers are the main cause of concern. Ignition energies can be in the region of low milli-joules which can easily be ignited by static discharge.
Pharmaceutical Perfumes and Toiletries industry, many products have Ethanol and/or other solvents added as part of their manufacturing process, mouth wash is a typical example. In some cases pharmaceutical products can involve a mixture of combustible dusts and solvents, this situation must be treated with extreme caution. In many cases the dust and solvent mixture can ignite at lower ignition temperatures and require less ignition energy to ignite.
Chemical Product Manufactures. Many products have solvents introduces are part of the manufacturing processes. The flashpoint of solvent can vary from -20°C to + 60°C, many are classed as Flammable and Highly Flammable under COSHH, releases can occur during mixing and filling activities.
These represent just a few examples of industries that have potential explosive atmosphere there are many more. If you require further advice or guidance come and talk to Baseefa we provide hourly charged Technical Advice to Total Turnkey Compliance Packages. We are confident we can offer the service to match your business needs.
For further information contact ian.harrison@baseefa.com
