In explosive environments, Ive heard about different zones,in which some equipment cannot be used. How are these specifically defined?
Designation of a workplace into zones is part of the risk assessment procedure that is required by the already established Framework Directive (89/391EEC), of which ATEX 100a and 137 are parts. It is, therefore, a procedure familiar to many companies’ health and safety officers, site managers, or electrical engineers. However, ATEX 137 stipulates that only suitable equipment may operate in those zones, which is an advance on the current practice of voluntary adherence.
