Service on a ATEX EEx P cabinet
Service on a ATEX EEx P cabinet
(OP)
Hi
We have a pressurized cabinet located in a Zone 1 area. The user manual states that before performing service we have to check that the area does not contain any explosive gases (checking would be doen by a handheld instrument). Servce involves opening the cabinet and with the power on.
I am no expert on the ATEX laws, but something about this procedure does not seem right.
Does anybody here have any expereience with this sort of issue?
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We have a pressurized cabinet located in a Zone 1 area. The user manual states that before performing service we have to check that the area does not contain any explosive gases (checking would be doen by a handheld instrument). Servce involves opening the cabinet and with the power on.
I am no expert on the ATEX laws, but something about this procedure does not seem right.
Does anybody here have any expereience with this sort of issue?
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RE: Service on a ATEX EEx P cabinet
RE: Service on a ATEX EEx P cabinet
My question is then really; although the cabinet is located in a Zone 1 area, is it allowed to open the cabinet if there are no explosive gases present?
Are there any requirements to the check of the atmosphere?
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RE: Service on a ATEX EEx P cabinet
In general: You do not have to move ATEX equipment from the site to the workshop for service although you might do work (dismantling) that takes safety devices out of operation. But during service work the machines are usually not in operation.
RE: Service on a ATEX EEx P cabinet
David
RE: Service on a ATEX EEx P cabinet
This cabinet is located in a pump room on-board a crude oil tanker. It is a measuring device using consumables, so the consumable has to be refilled when empty. After the refilling is completed the internal tubing has to be primed, this is done by initiating the priming function, meaning the power must be on and the door open.
I take it form your answers that this is allowed as long as we can be certain that the area is free of any explosive gases.
Is the checking for explosive covered in the ATEX directive, or is it sufficient to follow the procedure of whatever instrument is used for the checking?
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