Explosion-protection terms, in brief.

The European workplace directive 1999/92/EC, which aims to protect workers in explosive environments. In Hungary it is transposed by Joint Decree 3/2003 (III. 11.) FMM–ESzCsM.

The international name of the explosion protection document (EPD): the complete, written overview of a plant’s explosion risk, from hazard sources to protective measures.

The up-to-date register of the Ex equipment used in an explosion-hazard area, which is the basis for the traceability of inspections and the proof of conformity.

A mixture of flammable gas, vapour, mist or dust with air that, once ignited, burns through the whole mixture explosively. Zone classification is based on the probability of its formation.

The systematic identification and evaluation of the possible ignition sources occurring in the zones, based on the thirteen ignition source types of MSZ EN 1127-1.

The National Fire Safety Regulation (BM Decree 54/2014 (XII. 5.)), which provides the general framework of fire and explosion protection.

The regular, standard-based inspection (MSZ EN 60079-17) of explosion-protected equipment at risk-based intervals, with an initial inspection at first commissioning.

A space where an explosive atmosphere of gas, vapour or mist is present continuously, for long periods or frequently. Typically the inside of closed process spaces, e.g. the vapour space of tanks and vessels.

A space where a gas, vapour or mist explosive atmosphere may occasionally form during normal operation. For example, the immediate surroundings of filling and decanting points.

A space where a gas, vapour or mist explosive atmosphere is not likely in normal operation and, if it does form, persists only for a short time.

A space where a dust explosive atmosphere is present continuously, for long periods or frequently — e.g. inside silos, filters, closed conveyors.

A space where a dust explosive atmosphere may occasionally form in normal operation — e.g. filling points, the surroundings of frequently opened equipment.

A space where a dust explosive atmosphere is not likely in normal operation and, if it forms, persists only for a short time. Often results from the disturbance of settled dust.

The drawing that records the result of zone classification: on a plan and, where needed, a section, it shows where each zone begins and how far it extends. Equipment is selected according to it.