Many 3PLs across Europe have taken on contracts handling flammable materials and been forced to classify their hazardous areas in line with the ATEX Directive. While some areas on sites are typically designated “non-hazardous”, these companies still have concerns about materials handling equipment and other plant presenting a source of ignition. Many have opted to fit a simple gas detection system, fast.
Here’s why.
3PLs might be handling flammable raw materials or finished goods, either outside in a yard or inside in a warehouse. These facilities, where flammable materials are handled in volume, are required to classify parts of their operations into designated Zone 1 or 2 hazardous areas. The areas that fall outside of this are usually classed as “non-hazardous” within the meaning of the ATEX Directive. In 3PLs, this commonly includes specific picking, packing and marshalling areas.
Designated “non-hazardous” areas are prevalent in a wide range of manufacturing and logistics operations and there is no legal requirement to use explosion protected equipment in these areas. However, more and more businesses are choosing to provide an additional level of safety for their employees, in a similar way that pedestrian awareness, alarms and blue spots have become so popular.
Gas detection for any type of equipment of any age
There can still be explosion risks in “non-hazardous” areas, where explosive atmospheres may occur, but not in such quantities that would require full ATEX compliant Zone 2 (or Zone 1) solutions. In these areas, lift trucks, VNA or reach trucks are commonly in use, alongside other equipment, such as scrubber driers, shutters and shrink wrap machines. Gas and vapour releases aren’t limited by zones, so any mobile equipment can be an ignition source.
To protect people operating the equipment and those nearby, a simple gas detection solution called Gascheka Zone 3 makes these designated “non-hazardous” areas safer. Ideal for when the supply chain is under increased pressure, it can be fitted to any mobile equipment (of any age) in just a few hours including warehouse equipment, vans, cranes, access platforms and people transporters.
How active gas detection works in “non-hazardous” areas
A simple addition to any diesel, LPG or electric vehicle (or other type of equipment), Gascheka from Pyroban is a safety device that ensures equipment has integral gas detection. It monitors the area surrounding any mobile equipment and makes sure that it cannot operate when an explosive atmosphere could be present.
If Gascheka detects a gas or vapour release, an audible and visual warning will alert the driver. If the gas level increases to a higher level, the system will then safely shut off the ignition electrical system, bringing the equipment to a safe and controlled stop.
Once Gascheka shuts down the equipment, it cannot be restarted without the permission of the ‘person in authority’ (such as a site manager or safety manager). The Gascheka gas detection system will also check that the atmosphere is gas or vapour free before the equipment is restarted.
The system is available with infrared or pellistor gas sensing heads to ensure the correct technology can be matched according to the potential hazard.
Active gas detection for logistics operations
Protecting your people and the supply chain is more crucial than ever, so Gascheka Zone 3 should be used alongside Pyroban’s full ATEX compliant explosion proof products for Zone 1 and Zone 2 areas, such as system6000, as part of a total site safety solution.
If you’re a logistics operation, get in touch with our expert team to discuss how we can help actively keep people safe.
