systems for protection are available, should an explosion occur. A chemical isolation system isolates an explosion and prevents it from affecting interconnected processes. If unprotected, the ductwork and piping, as well as all the connected vessels and equipment are at risk. This system is used in combination with explosion protection equipment on each vessel, bin, or dust collector and could include chemical suppression, explosion venting or indoor venting.


REGULATION Because of potential health problems, laws exist to ensure employers in the EU protect their workers from being harmed by dangerous substances. The European Directive 99/92/EC on the Protection of Workers


Above: SparkEx spark detection and extinguishing system


rich downstream process equipment such as dust collectors, bins and silos, both fire and explosion risks can be managed. Using infra-red detectors, the system detects the radiated light


emitted from sparks, glowing embers and hot particles travelling past the detection point and activates control circuits. The greatest sensitivity occurs when these sensors are employed in a dark area such as closed ductwork, although optional daylight detectors are also available for use on open conveyor belts and for applications where light is likely to be visible. Upon detection this system provides several options to manage the ignition risk: • An electrical signal generated by the sensor activates control circuits typically used to operate an automatic water extinguishing curtain. Sparks can be extinguished without stopping production. • An automated shut down of the process can prevent the feed of combustible material • Alarm and control systems can be activated upon the detection of hot particles for other control devices such as diverter valves. The system detectors and control unit are ATEX certified for use


in a dusty working environment. This means there are no expensive costs for additional wiring to run from detectors to remote mounted control units, and plant personnel have direct access to the status of the equipment. In the event of an alarm condition, the operator can see immediately which process is at risk. A web based monitoring system, which allows plant managers to receive system alarms and faults to their smart phones, as well as monitoring the systems live on the internet, is also available. In addition to this


preventat ive method, Right: Vent test


For more information about protection and prevention systems against the risk of explosion please contact BS&B Safety Systems by telephoning +44 (0) 161 955 4202 or email sales@bsb-systems.co.uk


FEED COMPOUNDER JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014 PAGE 37


Potentially at Risk from Explosive Atmospheres (The ATEX work place directive) is implemented in the UK by the Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations (2002). The Health and Safety at Work Act (1974) is also in place to ensure safety in the work place. Employers must carry out risk assessments, and take steps to


ensure they prevent or adequately control exposure. It is important to include in the assessment foreseeable incidents and maintenance work, and plan for measures to be taken in these circumstances. A second ATEX EU Directive is 94/9/EC (the ATEX equipment


directive) which provides the technical requirements to be applied and the relevant conformity assessment procedures before placing equipment and protective systems intended for use in potentially explosive atmospheres on the European market.


A FOUR-STEP APPROACH TO RISK ASSESSMENT • Make an inventory of the materials used in workplace processes and those generated by the process such as welding fumes or organic dust. • Collect information about these substances, i.e. the harm they can do and how this can happen. Safety data sheets (SDS), which must be provided by the supplier of a chemical, are an important source of information. • Assess exposure to the identified dangerous substances, looking at the type, intensity, length, frequency and occurrence of exposure to workers, including combined effects of dangerous substances used together and the related risk. • Rank the severity of the established risks. This list can then be used to draw up an action plan to protect workers.


BUSINESS BENEFITS By investing in explosion protection, organisations can protect themselves economically, follow appropriate health and safety standards, and protect workers from potential risks.


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