Explosion risk assessment - basic information
There may be an explosion hazard in some workplaces. This is mainly due to the characteristics of the workplace, as well as the equipment, substances and mixtures used.
In order for an explosion to occur at the workplace, it is necessary to create a so-called explosive atmosphere and the appearance of an ignition source.
When is an explosion risk assessment necessary?
In those workplaces where there is a risk of an explosive atmosphere, a comprehensive explosion risk assessment should be performed.
This obligation is imposed by the ATEX Users Directive 137 and the Regulation of the Minister of Economy of 8 July 2010 on the minimum requirements for occupational health and safety related to the possibility of an explosive atmosphere in the workplace (Journal of Laws of 30 July 2010) .
When assessing the risk of an explosion, the following are taken into account:
- installations at the workplace
- the substances used and their mixtures
- processes taking place at the workplace and their interaction
- the probability of an explosive atmosphere and the duration of its occurrence
- the probability of the appearance of ignition sources
- the size of the effects of a possible explosion
After the explosion risk assessment has been performed, it is possible to make decisions related to the design of appropriate solutions in the field of explosion protection in the workplace.
Properly performed explosion risk assessment effectively reduces the danger in workplaces where such a risk may arise.
