ChapterPDF Available

Basics of Fire and Explosion: Risk Assessment

September 2017

DOI:10.1002/9783527803330.ch1

In book: Static Electricity: Understanding, Controlling, Applying (pp.1-18)

Authors:

Günter Lüttgens

ELSTATIK

Wolfgang A. Schubert

Schubert GMD

This chapter starts with basics on fire and explosion. A fire or an explosion will occur when the following components coincide with time and volume: fuel; oxygen; and ignition source (heat). If one of them is missing, combustion will not occur. Explosive atmospheres are divided into zones based on the probability that such an atmosphere will occur. But experience has shown that in some situations, a risk assessment would give the plant operator more flexibility. In the ATEX 137 “Workplace Directive”, the minimum requirements for improving the safety of workers potentially at risk from explosive atmospheres are laid down. The plant management must divide areas where hazardous explosive atmospheres may occur into “zones”. The classification given to a particular zone and its size and location depends on the likelihood of an explosive atmosphere occurring and its persistence if it does.

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www.wiley-vch.de/ISBN9783527341283

Sorry, I am unable to share my full-text because it is part of the book "Static Electricity“

published by WILEY in Nov. 2017; see also: www.wiley-vch.de/ISBN9783527341283

— Günter

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