An ATEX engineering project was developed for the drafting of the Explosion Protection Document (DOPEX) in an industrial plant of the car body sector.

The action was carried out by the ENGINEERING area of PRODEN GROUP, with the aim of evaluating, classifying and documenting the risks of explosive atmospheres existing in the facility.

The project was carried out in a work center located in the province of Barcelona.

Scope of the ATEX engineering project

Installation and analyzed environment

The scope of the project included the entire industrial facility, considering processes, equipment and areas with possible presence of explosive atmospheres.

The analysis was carried out taking into account the actual conditions of operation, use and maintenance of the facilities.

This approach made it possible to work on a scenario representative of the plant’s normal operation.

Regulatory framework of reference

Applicable ATEX regulations

The project was developed in accordance with the requirements established in the ATEX regulations applicable to industrial installations.

In particular, the following were considered:

• RD 681/2003, related to the protection of the health and safety of workers against explosive atmospheres.
• Directive 1999/92/EC, concerning minimum safety requirements
• Technical criteria associated with ATEX zone classification

This regulatory framework forms the basis for the preparation of the Explosion Protection Document.

Methodology applied in the drafting of the DOPEX

Analysis and classification of ATEX zones

First, a technical visit was made to the facility to analyze the processes and areas with potential risk of explosive atmosphere.

Subsequently, a technical analysis was carried out to identify emission sources, ignition sources and ventilation conditions.

Based on this information, ATEX zones were classified according to the probability and duration of the presence of explosive atmospheres.

Explosion risk assessment

Systematic risk analysis

A specific risk assessment was performed for explosive atmospheres, considering both the probability of formation of the atmosphere and the possible consequences.

This analysis provided a structured view of the risk in each of the identified zones.

Definition of preventive and protective measures

Technical and organizational measures

The project included the definition of preventive and protective measures aimed at reducing the risk of explosion.

These measures were planned in proportion to the level of risk identified, integrating technical, organizational and procedural aspects.

Thus, DOPEX was configured as an operational tool for ATEX risk management at the facility.

Technical documentation of the project

Elaboration of the Explosion Protection Document

At the end of the project, the Explosion Protection Document was prepared, integrating the analyses, classifications and measures defined.