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ATEX zone 22 (dust)

Explosion risks in ATEX zone 22

An ATEX environment, an area with an explosive atmosphere, is divided into different zones. In these zones, specific European directives apply to minimize the risk of explosion. Each zone has its own risks and regulations. These directives are outlined in ATEX 153 (workplace) and ATEX 114 (products). In total, there are six different ATEX zones: three gas zones and three dust zones. In this blog, we will explain ATEX Zone 22, a dust zone.

Least risky dust zone

In ATEX Zone 22, a dust zone, the likelihood of an explosive atmosphere being present is very low. Under normal use, explosive substances are present for less than 0.1% of the operational time. If they are present, it is only for a short period. Compared to ATEX Zone 20 and ATEX Zone 21, the other two dust zones, an explosive atmosphere is present less frequently and for a shorter period in this zone. Even though the risk in ATEX Zone 22 is lower than in the other dust zones, this zone is not less dangerous.

Requirements for ATEX zone 22

In all ATEX zones, there are multiple requirements to ensure the safety of people and the environment. Because the likelihood of an explosive atmosphere is very low in ATEX Zone 22 under normal use, the requirements are less stringent than in the other dust zones. Equipment used in ATEX Zone 22 is also subject to less stringent requirements. The requirements for ATEX Zone 22 are similar to those for ATEX Zone 2 (gas zone). The biggest difference between the requirements in ATEX Zone 22 and ATEX Zone 2 lies in the requirements for sensors. Some sensors can therefore be used in ATEX Zone 22 but not in a gas zone.

Equipment categories

All equipment used in explosive environments is divided into different groups and categories. Equipment used in mining falls under ATEX Equipment Group I. Equipment for all other explosive environments falls under ATEX Equipment Group II. Within Group II, there are different categories: Equipment Category 1, 2, and 3. Equipment used in ATEX Zone 22 must meet the requirements of Equipment Category 3.

Group I is exclusively for equipment used in underground mining or above-ground mining installations.
Group II applies to all other environments where there is a risk of explosion.

Ex logo

All equipment used in an ATEX environment must bear the 'Ex' logo. ATEX 114 specifies exactly what the equipment must meet to be used safely in an explosive zone. Once a device is ATEX certified, the Ex logo must be clearly visible on the equipment.

DEKRA & ATEX Zones

Are you required to comply with ATEX, or do you want to investigate whether you are required to comply with ATEX? DEKRA offers various services related to ATEX and explosion risks. Do you have questions about ATEX zones, or would you like to know more about the services we offer? Please feel free to contact one of our experts.

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