Identify explosion risks before they become a problem
Do you work with flammable gases, vapours, mists or dust? Then explosive atmospheres may occur within your organisation. To protect employees, installations and processes, it is important to identify these risks at an early stage.
With zoning, also known as Hazardous Area Classification, we determine where an explosion risk exists and which measures are required. This provides the basis for a safe working environment while helping you comply with the applicable ATEX directives.
Zoning tailored to your organization
No two work environments are the same. That’s why our specialists analyze the processes, substances used, equipment, and environmental factors within your organization. Based on this analysis, we determine where explosive atmospheres may occur and how these areas should be classified.
Depending on the situation, we classify areas according to:
- Zones 0, 1, and 2 for flammable gases, vapors, and mists
- Zones 20, 21, and 22 for flammable dust clouds
We document the results in a clear report, including zoning diagrams and practical guidance. These form the basis for the explosion safety document and the selection of suitable ATEX equipment. This dossier must be approved by a Recognised Body with this accreditation. You can also rely on us for this.
Zoning in order? Prepare for the ATEX inspection
An ATEX inspection can only take place once you have a zoning dossier and accompanying plans that map out the hazardous areas where there is a risk of explosion.
An annual ATEX inspection checks three elements:
- The electrical installation in and serving the hazardous areas
- The additional requirements specified in the zoning dossier (e.g. ventilation)
- The correct selection of the equipment installed in the hazardous areas (minimum protection method, IP rating, certificate, etc.)
Better control over safety and regulations
With zoning:
- You comply with the applicable ATEX directives
- You gain insight into explosion risks within your organization
- You can justify your choice of suitable ATEX equipment
- You lay the foundation for an explosion safety document
- You prepare your organization for inspections and audits
Specialized guidance
Proper zoning requires knowledge of legislation, installations, and industrial processes. Normec’s specialists combine this expertise with extensive practical experience across a wide range of sectors.
We support organizations in sectors including the chemical industry, the oil and gas sector, the pharmaceutical industry, the food industry, energy supply, waste processing, logistics, and tank storage.
Our work complies with the requirements of ATEX 153 (1999/92/EC) for workplaces and ATEX 114 (2014/34/EU) for equipment in potentially explosive atmospheres.
The first step toward an explosion-safe installation
By identifying risks early on, you can take the appropriate measures and prevent unsafe situations. Once the zone classification has been determined, we can also assist you with follow-up processes, such as ATEX inspections, advice on explosion-proof equipment, and periodic assessments.
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Frequently asked questions about zoning & hazardous area classification
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Zoning is the classification of areas where explosive atmospheres may occur due to flammable gases, vapours, mists or dust. Based on this classification, appropriate safety measures are determined.
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Hazardous Area Classification is the international term for determining and classifying areas at risk of explosion. In the Netherlands, the term “zoning” is usually used for this purpose.
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Zoning is mandatory when explosive atmospheres may occur within an organisation. Employers must assess these risks and take appropriate measures in accordance with the applicable ATEX directives.
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Zoning identifies explosion risks and the corresponding zones. An ATEX inspection then checks whether installations and equipment within these zones comply with the applicable requirements.
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Zoning is relevant for companies working with flammable gases, vapours, mists or dust, such as organisations in the chemical, pharmaceutical and food industries, woodworking, energy, waste processing and tank storage.
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Yes. You will receive a clear report containing the zone classification, the substantiation of the assessment and recommendations for any next steps.