courses

Area Classification

Topic Safety

CPD Hours 13

This is an IChemE approved training course and not delivered directly by the Institution. For more information about the course, contact the training provider directly.

Overview

The classification of hazardous areas is an integral part of the overall risk assessment process required under Regulation 7 of the Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations 2002 (DSEAR) and Regulation 9 of the Prevention of Fire and Explosion and Emergency Response Regulations 1995 (PFEER). Its purpose is to define the extent, frequency and duration of an explosive atmosphere (the zone).

The zone in turn defines the requirements for the selection of equipment and protective systems so as to control sources of ignition. Compliance with DSEAR is mandatory for any onshore operator handling dangerous substances and PFEER for any operator of fixed offshore installations.

Additional dates are available visit the TÜV Rheinland Industrial Services website.

Key topics

  • Introduction to DSEAR (2002) and in particular the requirements for area classification and selection of equipment to avoid ignition sources
  • The flammability of gases, vapours and dusts and how they relate to area classification
  • Introduction to BS EN 60079-10-1:2015 the British Standard for area classification relating to gases and vapours. The scope of this standard is addressed, in particular the grading of releases and the effect of ventilation
  • The course provides an overview of two widely used codes. EI15 edition 4 and SR25 edition 2 including syndicate exercises
  • Introduction to BS EN 60079-10-2:2015 the British Standard for area classification relating to dusts. The scope and use of this standard is addressed, complete with a syndicate exercise

Learning outcomes

On completion of the course delegates should be able to:

  • understand the principles of area classification
  • understand the steps in the area classification procedure
  • identify the grades of release and how they relate to zoning
  • appreciate the industry codes available that can be used to establish the extent of zones
  • understand the requirements for selection of equipment to be installed in potentially explosive atmospheres
  • join an area classification meeting and work under the direction of an experienced practitioner.

Who will benefit

The course should suit recent graduates and experienced staff with operations, process, engineering and safety responsibilities.

Course outline

  • Introduction to DSEAR (2002) and how area classification plays an integral part in assessing the risk to personnel
  • The flammability of gases, vapours and dusts and how they relate to area classification equipment for use in hazardous areas
    • New equipment
    • Existing installed equipment
  • BS EN 60079-10-1:2015 (Gases & Vapours) - British Standard ‘Classification of hazardous areas’
    • Introduction to this standard
    • Scope and use
    • Procedure
  • Use of an ‘Industry Code’ (1)
    • The institution of Gas Engineers (IGE/SR/25) ‘Hazardous area classification of natural gas installations’
    • Scope and use
  • Use of an ‘Industry Code’ (2)
    • EI model Code of Practice in the Petroleum Industry, Part 15, edition 4. ‘Area classification code for installations handling flammable fluids’
    • Overview
    • Structure
  • BS EN 60079-10-2:2015 (Dusts) - British Standard ‘Classification of areas where combustible dusts are or may be present’
    • Introduction to this standard
    • Procedure

Upcoming dates

Date 17th October 2023
Location Warrington, UK
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