ATEX is the name commonly given to the legal requirements for controlling explosive atmospheres and the suitability and performance of equipment used in them.
ATEX consists of two related EU directives that describe what equipment and work environment is allowed, in a location with a potentially explosive atmosphere.
The ATEX Regulations apply to all equipment intended for use in explosive atmospheres, whether electrical or mechanical, and also to protective systems. That includes industrial weighing scales.
When purchasing equipment for use in hazardous locations, it’s important that you check certification to ensure that the scales you intend to purchase have been ATEX tested and approved for use in a relevant environment.
Equipment documentation must confirm ATEX conformity
All manufacturers that sell weighing equipment must provide technical documentation that allows customers to check the conformity of safety equipment with the requirements of the ATEX Regulations 1996. Failure to do so is breaking the Law.
A good starting point when searching for equipment is to enter ATEX weighing in Google.
Industrial weighing equipment and its use in hazardous areas
Special precautions have to be taken in hazardous areas to prevent scale equipment from being a source of ignition.
If you are proposing to use weighing equipment in an environment where an explosive atmosphere is highly likely to occur, reliance should be placed on using equipment that has a low risk of creating a source of ignition.
Likewise, in situations where this likelihood is reduced, equipment that is designed to a less rigorous standard is suitable.
What are ATEX zones?
Equipment certification should confirm that scales are suitable for use in specific zones or areas, according to the level of risk. Normally a health and safety officer (HSE) will provide you with the correct zoning requirement for your environment.
ATEX equipment – fit for purpose?
For further information about the ATEX Regulations and zoning, visit the HSE website.
Abacus Weighing Services is a name that’s respected throughout the weighing industry. Specialising in Dini Argeo equipment, Abacus supplies to end-users and through their approved distribution network.
