ATEX

The ATEX Standard The new ATEX 2014/34/EU directive is a piece of EU legislation that regulates equipment and environments that are potentially explosive. There are two primary objectives of the new directive; one is to permit free movement of products within the EU market and the other is to ensure the highest level of health and safety. Additionally, the ATEX ‘workplace’ regulates the potentially explosive environments in which ATEX certified equipment is used. What is ATEX? The term ATEX refers to environments that have the potential for explosive activity, such as petrochemical plants, mines, and mills. The explosive potential is a result of a combination of materials that are likely to ignite or explode. Such materials include air gases, vapours, mists or dust that may ignite under certain operating conditions. The ATEX 2014/34/ EU Directive The ATEX directive aims to provide a unified compliance procedure for all EU countries. This alleviates the complexities of dealing with multiple national standards and removes trade barriers by defining Essential Health and Safety Requirements (EHSRs) for Ex equipment. The directive provides the foundation for product conformity across the EU and establishes a uniform approval process for equipment intended for use in potentially explosive atmospheres. Product certification involves a detailed process of examination, testing and assessment of equipment. Once acquired, the certification validates a product’s safety and adherence to relevant health and safety requirements. Who Does ATEX Pertain To? Compliance with the ATEX directive is the obligation of the individual who puts the product on the EU market, whether that be the manufacturer, an importer, or an authorized distributor. It’s also important to note that the directive applies to all products on the EU market, regardless of how the product is sold. This means even products manufactured in countries outside of the EU that are sold electronically in the EU must comply with the ATEX directive. ATEX regulations also apply to workplaces that either store or use flammable substances such as petrol or solvents. The enforcement of the ATEX standard is the responsibility of each EU member state, individually. This means each country must add the regulations to their national legislation and ensure authorities are enforcing compliance. The KTR Programme for Explosion-Proof Applications Many factors must be taken into consideration for KTR design drive systems used in explosive areas. As leaders in shaft couplings, we vigilantly adhere to the ATEX standard where applicable. During the earliest stages of design, we make sure to consider the potentially explosive environments in which our products will be used. We recognize the imminent dangers associated with the improper selection, installation, operation, and maintenance of equipment in hazardous environments. Therefore, in order to ensure maximum safety and ATEX compliance, we work closely with an independent institute when we design new products and ensure all mechanical equipment and components are inspected as potential explosion hazards. We strongly believe that providing our customers advice and solutions to ensure safe and effective operation is a non-negotiable. Your safety is our top priority and we will work closely with you to ensure we find the best solution for your specific application.

For more information on ATEX talk to KTR U.K. Ltd