Controlling electric hazards
June 2nd 2008 The overall cost of non-compliance in controlling electrostatic hazards can stretch far beyond potential savings achieved by ignoring the risk of electrostatic ignitions or using non-compliant static control protection methods.
As more attention is paid to managing ignition risks in hazardous areas, published data by leading companies show incendive spark discharges are a significant source of accidents in bulk storage handling incidents (loss of containment and overfilling are listed as the primary sources) and are second to mechanical sparks in dust cloud explosions.
Hazardous area operators should be capable of demonstrating to the relevant authorities that a comprehensive static risk audit has been conducted and, where appropriate, can demonstrate evidence of using fit for purpose static control equipment.
The two main Best Practice standards hazardous area operators can work to are:
Cenelec CLC/TR:50404 (2003): Code of practice for control of undesirable static electricity,(Cenelec committee CLC/TC 31)
NFPA 77 (2007): Recommended Practice on Static Electricity, (National Fire Protection Association).
The standards provide information on how static is generated, the types of processes that can be susceptible to electrostatic hazards and, most importantly, what Best Practice measures can be put in place to ensure static electricity is safely controlled. Implementation of the standards provides hazardous area operators with a means of demonstrating Best Practice compliance to occupational Health and Safety regulators.
To read the full article log on to: www.newsongale.co.uk/whatsnew/ettgnewsletter.html and click on the link to our latest newsletter Issue 17 Spring 2008.
The FREE and updated 2008 Earthing & Bonding Applications Handbook provides helpful illustrations of the Best Practice solutions recommended in the Cenelec and NFPA standards. Register for your free copy on www.newson-gale.co.uk
For more information contact our team on 0115 940 7500 or e-mail us at earthit@newson-gale.co.uk
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