11-ATEX Zones

The Whys ?

Oil installations are extremely vulnerable to fire and explosion risks which might, in the event of accidents, entirely damage the installations and engender human and material losses and affect the environment.

The must do's

Wearing and/or using equipment and apparatuses which are sources of ignition in classified zones in terms of explosive atmosphere control (ATEX Zones) are strictly forbidden: GSM, cameras, portable PC’s, electric batteries, non ATEX TW, lighters.

Moreover, and in case of intervention in ATEX zones, the requirements listed hereafter are to be complied with :

• Deal with and ensure periodic regulatory control of the electric installations : mechanical protection of the electric cables, equipotential earth bonding, insulation level ;
• Obtain a hot work permit in ATEX zone for any intervention exposing to flames, sparks, heat and temperature ;
• Comply with the RSV n° 10 requirements: «Hot works » ;
• Never authorize access to thermal engines in zone 1 ;
• Check conformity of exhaust pipe thermal insulation and conformity of the spark- guard devices of all thermal engines prior to access in zone 2 ;
• Check total integrity of the pressurized premises in ATEX zone.