Hazardous Areas: The Role of Facility Management in Risk Prevention

• Zone 0: An area where an explosive atmosphere is continuously present for long periods of time.
• Zone 1: An area where an explosive atmosphere may occur during normal operation.
• Zone 2: An area where an explosive atmosphere is not likely to occur, however, if it does, it will only be present briefly.

For zones where combustible dusts may be present, the following applies:

• Zone 20: An area where explosive dust is continuously present or present for long periods of time.
• Zone 21: An area where explosive dust may occur during normal operation.
• Zone 22: An area where an explosive atmosphere is not likely to occur, however, if it does, it will only be present briefly.

• Regular Inspections: Equipment in hazardous zones must be inspected regularly from both a compliance and operational perspective. Degraded equipment can pose a safety risk and lead to unexpected downtime. Routine inspections can identify issues before they escalate.
• Contractor Partnerships: As mentioned, choosing an ill-equipped contractor can be a serious risk. General contractors may not fully understand the hazards or regulatory requirements of working in hazardous areas. This is why selecting a CompEx-accredited engineer is essential. Their certification demonstrates proven competency in explosive and high-risk environments. 
• Fully Updated Documentation: Up-to-date documentation is vital in the event of an unplanned inspection and serves as evidence of your commitment to safety. Facility managers must ensure that hazardous area drawings and inspection records are kept current and are easily accessible to relevant personnel.

Get Started with a Preventative Approach
Working with accredited experts supports your role as a risk manager and provides valuable third-party assurance – something often welcomed by governing health and safety bodies. It also demonstrates a clear commitment to the safety of your clients.

At SR Electrical, we hold all the necessary accreditations, including CompEx, to help facilities remain compliant and avoid entirely preventable incidents. Contact us today to find out how we can support your business.