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ATEX 153 directive

Safety and compliance for explosive environments

At DEKRA, we understand the crucial importance of safety and compliance in explosive environments. The ATEX 153 directive plays an essential role in ensuring the safety of workers in zones where explosion risks are present. We offer services to comply with the requirements of this directive and to guarantee the safety of your work environment.

What is the ATEX 153 directive?

ATEX 153 (formerly ATEX 137) is an extension of ATEX 114 and sets the minimum requirements for improving the protection of workers in work environments where explosive atmospheres may occur.

The directive requires employers to conduct a thorough risk assessment and take appropriate measures to prevent or limit explosion risks. This includes using safe equipment, appropriate safety systems, and providing clear instructions and training to employees.

In addition, the ATEX 153 directive requires employers to develop procedures for the maintenance of equipment and emergency plans in the event of an incident. ATEX 153 plays a crucial role in the field of explosion safety. It supports you in ensuring the safety and health of your employees in risky environments and contributes to the prevention of serious accidents and damage within the industry.

Download the directive here

The four key pillars within the ATEX 153 directive

Employers are required to assess the risks of explosive atmospheres. This means identifying potential ignition sources and evaluating the likelihood of explosions. This assessment helps determine the necessary measures to ensure worker safety.

Measures must be taken to prevent the formation of explosive atmospheres. This includes minimizing the presence of flammable substances and controlling potential ignition sources. If the risk cannot be completely eliminated, employers must ensure that the effects of an explosion are limited to guarantee the safety of workers.

Employers must classify work areas into different zones based on the frequency and duration of the occurrence of explosive atmospheres. These zones, such as Zone 0, Zone 1, and Zone 2 for gases and vapors, or Zone 20, Zone 21, and Zone 22 for dust, help determine the specific safety measures and equipment needed.

It is essential that employees working in or near explosive environments are adequately informed and trained. They must be aware of the potential dangers and know how to act safely to minimize risks. This includes using personal protective equipment and following safe work procedures.

iNozzle: a product with ATEX certification

ATEX certificate customer case

With the ATEX certification obtained, DEKRA paved the way for the product launch of the iNozzle. In this customer case study, we look back with Pascal van Nisselroy, director of Smarter Nozzle, on the development of the iNozzle, the challenges he faced, and his ambitions for the future.

Employee in potentially explosive atmosphere atex 153

Explosion Safety Document (EVD)

An important part of the ATEX 153 directive is the creation of an explosion safety document (EVD). It is part of the risk inventory and evaluation (RI&E) of your company. It is also known as an in-depth RI&E. The explosion safety document must contain both technical and organizational measures to prevent explosion hazards. Anyone is authorized to create an EVD, but it is mandatory to have the document reviewed by a certified expert. This expert verifies whether the document is complete, corresponds to reality, and reflects the current situation.

How to comply with the ATEX 153 directive?

DEKRA's specialists will meet with you to assess your situation and determine which solutions suit your specific needs. To achieve your certification, you will receive a customized service package.

Our explosion safety services

We offer detailed risk assessments to identify potential hazards in explosive environments. Our experts analyze the work environment and help you develop strategies to effectively manage these risks.

Our specialists assist in setting up and implementing safety management systems that comply with the requirements of the ATEX 153 directive. This includes developing procedures and guidelines that ensure the safety of your personnel.

DEKRA offers training and workshops tailored to the specific needs of your organization. Our training programs focus on increasing awareness of explosion hazards and promoting safe work practices.

Our inspectors conduct thorough inspections to ensure that your installations and equipment comply with the ATEX 153 directive.

ATEX 153 in practice

Experiences of DEKRA Expert Stephan Schaepman

“A safe environment starts with strong cooperation,” says Stephan. “Over the years, I have worked with a wide range of companies, from manufacturers of breast implants, candy, and car parts to large gas companies and seed breeders. When visiting a site, I don't need to know every detail of the production process, but focus on the safety issues.

Intensive cooperation and knowledge sharing are crucial here. By spending time with management and employees, I gain insight into a company's safety vision and how rules are established and enforced. Only then can I identify non-conformities and provide guidance on documenting safety measures in accordance with ATEX 153.”

By spending time with management and employees, I gain insight into a company's safety vision.

Stephan Schaepman

Stephan remembers visiting offshore gas platforms owned by a large company, where explosion safety was high on the agenda. “During my visit, I discovered a number of risks that had not been identified. To raise awareness, we carried out additional tests that revealed a lack of maintenance or poor maintenance. Subsequently,

We addressed the non-conformities through remedial actions:
documented everything in an EVD to ensure safety standards were met
updated maintenance systems;
train management and staff to ensure safety standards are maintained.”

Expert advice can clarify confusion about the ATEX 153 directive. Stephan explains: “In the warehouse of a large supermarket chain, they were using charging stations for forklift batteries. The site manager had consulted several specialists, but received conflicting advice about ATEX safety requirements. In the end, they called in DEKRA. Together, we determined what was needed to comply with the standards. Now they call us directly for guidance, so we can act proactively and make adjustments smoothly and on time. This shows how long-term cooperation helps keep safety on track.”

The benefits of involving DEKRA in your compliance process:

Expertise

With decades of experience in explosion safety, DEKRA offers unparalleled expertise and knowledge.

Reliability

We are a trusted partner for companies worldwide when it comes to compliance with safety standards.

Tailored Services

Our services are flexible and can be adapted to the specific needs of your organization.