Module 1 – Introduction to ATEX & Explosive Atmospheres
• What is ATEX?
• What is an explosive atmosphere?
• How explosive atmospheres are formed
• Flammable gases, vapours, mists and combustible dusts
• Where explosive atmospheres may occur
• Workplace fire and explosion risks
• Why ATEX awareness is important
The HSA describes an explosive atmosphere as an accumulation of gas, mist, dust or vapour mixed with air that has the potential to catch fire or explode.
Module 2 – ATEX Legislation & Workplace Requirements
• Introduction to the ATEX framework
• ATEX Workplace Directive
• ATEX Product Directive
• Irish workplace requirements
• Employer responsibilities
• Employee responsibilities
• Information, instruction and training
• Risk assessment requirements
• Workplace controls
Participants will understand the distinction between the ATEX workplace requirements and the requirements relating to equipment and protective systems intended for potentially explosive atmospheres.
Module 3 – Flammable Materials & Explosive Atmosphere Hazards
• Identifying flammable substances
• Flammable gases
• Flammable liquids and vapours
• Combustible dusts
• Mists
• Sources and conditions that can create explosive atmospheres
• Understanding the relationship between fuel, air and ignition
Practical Discussion:
Participants identify potential flammable materials and explosive-atmosphere risks within typical workplace environments.
Module 4 – Area & Zone Classification
• Why hazardous areas are classified
• Understanding ATEX zones
• Gas and vapour zones
• Dust zones
• Zone 0, 1 and 2
• Zone 20, 21 and 22
• Understanding the likelihood and duration of an explosive atmosphere
• Workplace signage and zone identification
The HSA identifies zones according to the likelihood and duration of an explosive atmosphere being present.
Module 5 – Identifying Sources of Ignition
Participants will explore common sources of ignition, including:
• Electrical sparks
• Hot surfaces
• Static electricity
• Mechanical sparks
• Friction
• Open flames
• Hot work
• Smoking
• Inappropriate equipment
• Other potential ignition sources
The course will emphasise the importance of identifying and controlling ignition sources in areas where explosive atmospheres may occur.
Module 6 – Prevention & Protection Measures
• Eliminating or reducing explosive atmospheres
• Controlling releases
• Ventilation
• Controlling ignition sources
• Suitable equipment
• Static control
• Safe working procedures
• Personal protective equipment
• Emergency arrangements
• Explosion prevention
• Explosion mitigation
The HSA identifies elimination, substitution and control measures as approaches to avoiding or reducing explosive atmospheres, alongside mitigation measures where an explosive atmosphere cannot be sufficiently avoided.
Module 7 – Permit-to-Work & Safe Working Procedures
• Purpose of permit-to-work systems
• When permits may be required
• Hot work controls
• Isolation and control of energy sources
• Communication and authorisation
• Following written procedures
• Coordination between workers and contractors
• Importance of competent supervision
The HSA notes that, where required by the Explosion Protection Document, written instructions and permit-to-work systems form part of the arrangements for controlling work in potentially explosive atmospheres.
Module 8 – Explosion Protection Document (EPD)
• What is an Explosion Protection Document?
• Purpose of the EPD
• Risk assessment findings
• Hazardous area classification
• Prevention and protection measures
• Operational procedures
• Training and supervision
• Permit-to-work arrangements
• Equipment selection
• Review requirements
Participants will understand the purpose of the EPD and how it contributes to the overall management of explosion risk.
Module 9 – Case Studies & Practical Examples
Participants will work through practical examples involving:
• Flammable gases and vapours
• Combustible dust
• Electrical equipment
• Maintenance activities
• Hot work
• Static electricity
• Permit-to-work situations
The exercises will encourage participants to identify:
Hazard → Ignition Source → Risk → Control Measure
