• Ex 000 – Basic knowledge and awareness to enter a site that includes a classified hazardous area
• Ex 001 – Principles of protection in explosive atmospheres knowledge
• Ex 003 – Install explosion-protected equipment and wiring systems
• Ex 004 – Maintain equipment in explosive atmospheres
• Ex 005 – Overhaul and repair of explosion-protected equipment
• Ex 006 – Test electrical installations in or associated with explosive atmospheres
• Ex 007 – Perform visual and close inspection of electrical installations in or associated with explosive atmospheres
• Ex 008 – Perform detailed inspection of electrical installations in or associated with explosive atmospheres
• Ex 011 – Basic knowledge of the safety of hydrogen systems

Process filters and housings made in the UK are set to feature in South Africa at a major industry event for the global energy industry.

Amazon Filters, a leading manufacturer and exporter, will highlight the benefits of its products and services at the forthcoming African Petrochemicals & Energy roadshow.

The one-day event, in Secunda, South Africa, on 31 July 2025, is designed to bring delegates together from across the petrochemical, oil and gas, and energy sectors.

Many attendees will come from supply chain businesses offering equipment, services and solutions to worldwide energy producers.    

Amazon Filters is represented at the show by long-standing regional distributor partner National Separations (Pty) Ltd (Natsep), whose team will demonstrate technical aspects of the filters and housings and explain their efficiency and sustainability benefits.

Headquartered in Johannesburg and with marketing, sales, distribution and service hubs in Cape Town, Durban and Gqeberha, Natsep provides a range of solutions involving Amazon Filters products.

Core activities include laboratory water purification, process filtration technologies for clarification and sterilisation, and microbial and particle quality control testing.   

Padrig O’Hara, Amazon Filters’ Project Specialist for the oil and gas sectors, said the products on display at Secunda will include SupaSep LGP, the latest evolution of the firm’s liquid-gas coalescers, and newly launched sustainable polypropylene versions of its flagship meltblown filter ranges SupaSpun II, SupaGard, Contour and Contour Gas.

Padrig said: “We aim to highlight how our design capabilities create advanced filter vessels and internal components that can aid critical filtration processes in the oil and gas, energy and renewables sectors.

“We provide essential filtration technology and energy-efficient solutions that enhance efficiency, performance and sustainability.”

It is the second year in a row that Amazon Filters and Natsep have partnered on a presence at a major South African energy industry expo.

In October 2024, the firms exhibited jointly at The Sasolburg Petrochemicals & Energy roadshow at Stonehaven on Vaal, Vereeniging.

This summer’s Secunda African Petrochemicals & Energy roadshow takes place at the Graceland Hotel, Casino & Country Club. For more information, visit www.africanpetrochemicals.co.za.   

EEMUA, the Engineering Equipment and Materials Users Association, has announced the appointments of Clare Booth from Syngenta, Phil McEvoy from UM Terminals, and Ian Watson from E.ON to the EEMUA Board as non-executive member Directors.The EEMUA Board provides leadership for carrying out the aims and objectives of the Association, primarily to help members and stakeholders worldwide to improve the safety, efficiency and compliance of some of the world's most important industrial assets.

Clare Booth is a chartered integrity and materials engineer with over 30 years’ experience within asset integrity management specialising in inspection and corrosion control, and recently in the development and implementation of global engineering standards and creation of global collaboration to deliver improved process safety management through effective asset care within the Syngenta group. Claire said: “As a board member, I intend to share my experience and understanding of challenges encountered within international manufacturing to drive change, promote good engineering practices for all and embrace future challenges.”

Phil McEvoy is a chartered mechanical engineer working within oil, gas and infrastructure businesses for the last 25 years. For the past 15 years he has been working in businesses that operate within bulk liquid storage, specialising in asset integrity management combined with the commercial management of storage assets. His current position of Managing Director for UM Terminals has allowed Phil to fully integrate management systems for inspection and integrity with commercial and sales. Phil said: “I am looking forward to being able to use my understanding of the challenges of asset owners and operators within the storage and process industries to help shape the future initiatives and development of EEMUA.”

Dr Ian Watson is a chartered materials engineer with over 20 years’ experience working in asset integrity management, risk management, process safety and product safety. As the Asset Management and Process Safety Manager for E.ON Infrastructure Services (UK), Ian has recently introduced a Product Safety Assurance Framework and an Operational Technology Cyber Security Management System for E.ON’s diverse engineering asset portfolio, whilst also providing engineering governance and technical support to various heat and power asset optimisation and decarbonisation programmes, within E.ON and in partnership with its clients. Ian said: “My experiences within a large energy supplier have given me insights into many of the engineering problems facing EEMUA members, from ageing assets and engineering talent retention/development to decarbonisation and cyber security. I look forward to supporting EEMUA’s activities whilst also looking at opportunities for members to be engaged in the Association’s technical programme.”

On the appointments EEMUA Chair John Whitfield commented: “I would like to welcome Clare, Phil and Ian to the EEMUA Board. Their appointments are great additions that will strengthen and add to the robustness of the board. Each has a wealth of experience and knowledge in their own fields that will help shape the strategic direction, future initiatives and work of EEMUA as it moves forward in changing times.

www.eemua.org

​Wood, a global leader in consulting and engineering, has been awarded a series of decarbonisation contracts with a value of c.$100m for flare gas reduction and carbon efficiency project solutions across the largest oil fields in Iraq.  Wood will deliver brownfield engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) and modifications solutions to enhance operational efficiency and minimise environmental impacts, in support of Iraq’s commitment to reduce gas flaring by 78% by the end of 2025.  

Wood has a decades-long track record of providing decarbonisation solutions for major operators in Iraq and has implemented the country’s largest flare gas reduction programme to date. 

Ellis Renforth, President of Operations for Europe, Middle East and Africa said: “We are working in partnership with our clients to achieve Iraq’s energy ambitions and deliver a sustainable energy future for the country.  Wood Iraq has extensive knowledge of our clients' infrastructure, operations and goals, enabling them to improve operational efficiency and reduce the impact of gas flaring while maintaining critical production.”  

The reimbursable contracts will be delivered by Wood’s team in Iraq and the UAE. Wood will recruit 60 new employees to support the successful delivery of these projects.  

www.woodplc.com

Dust-related hazards and product spills generally fall into two primary categories. The first concerns dust that poses health risks. This includes well-known dangers like asbestos and silica, but even everyday dust that workers inhale can be harmful. Industrial Vacuum Cleaners designated as M-Class and H-Class, effectively manage hazardous dust using HEPA filtration and appropriate disposable collection methods.
The second category involves dust that presents environmental risks. A key example is dust capable of creating explosive atmospheres, particularly organic substances such as sugar or flour. Some materials, like wood dust, are hazardous to both health and fire safety. ATEX-rated Industrial Vacuum Cleaners are essential for areas classified as ATEX zones.

Choosing the right Industrial Vacuum Cleaner requires assessing potential dangers to determine the correct and appropriate specifications. BVC – British Vacuum Cleaners is a leading UK brand of industrial vacuum solutions. Manufactured by Quirepace in Fareham, Hampshire, the range includes M-Class and H-Class machines for harmful dust, along with ATEX-rated models for explosive environments.
In addition to standard specifications, Quirepace can offer customised solutions for special applications. Customisations can include features such as integrated control systems, special tooling, additional filtration and primary interceptors. Quirepace have manufactured several special BVC Industrial Vacuum Cleaners to interface with industrial robots.

Quirepace’s experience and expertise, combined with its knowledgeable sales team, UK-based production, and local support for service and spare parts, ensures BVC Industrial Vacuum Cleaners provide durability and cost efficiency. Backed by a 5-year parts warranty, they deliver dependable performance in all industrial settings.

In addition to portable solutions, Quirepace also specializes in fixed installations for Central Vacuum Cleaning. These installations feature multiple access points connected to a centralized plant via a network of fixed pipework.
Contact us today to arrange an initial consultation meeting.
www.quirepace.co.uk www.bvc.co.uk
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
023 9260 3700

Whether you're handling flammable gases, combustible dusts, or unstable chemicals, the risk of explosive atmospheres must be managed proactively, not reactively. In the UK, the Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations (DSEAR) legally require employers to assess and mitigate these risks. DSEAR enacts the European ATEX and Chemical Agents Directives (CAD) into UK law, and while DSEAR was derived from EU legislation, it now stands independently post-Brexit.

The UK Health and Safety Executive's Approved Code of Practice (ACoP) L138 provides authoritative guidance on when, why, and how often DSEAR reviews must be conducted.

So, when should you act, and how do you ensure your ATEX/DSEAR assessment protects your people, plant, and profits? Your ATEX/DSEAR assessment is not just a report — it's your foundation for safe, legal, and efficient operations. As your processes evolve, so must your understanding of the hazards they pose.

Strategic and Operational Drivers for Conducting ATEX/DSEAR Assessments

Conducting a DSEAR/ATEX assessment is far more than a tick-box exercise — it's a critical component of operational safety, legal compliance, and business continuity. Key drivers include:

• Regulatory Compliance – DSEAR is a legal obligation under UK law.
• Safe Operation of Facilities – Identifies and mitigates fire, explosion, and energetic risks.
• Insurance & Liability Management – Demonstrates duty of care and can influence policy premiums.
• Training & Awareness – Supports ongoing education for personnel about hazardous areas.
• Integration with Process Safety – Complements frameworks such as Process Safety Management (PSM) and Process Hazard Analysis (PHA) for robust risk management.
• ESG & Governance Alignment – Shows commitment to high safety and environmental standards.

Failure to comply with DSEAR can result in enforcement actions, heavy fines, or prosecution under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974.

Common Pitfalls in ATEX/DSEAR Reviews: What We Frequently Uncover

Risk assessments often capture a snapshot in time. Critical hazards can be missed without the right depth and expertise, potentially with catastrophic consequences.

Electrostatic Hazards – Frequently Overlooked Risks
Insufficient understanding of material conductivity, flexible hosing, insulating Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), or worn earthing systems can create inadvertent ignition sources.

Dust Hazards – The Silent Threat
Combustible powders can form explosive dust clouds under specific conditions. Many facilities underestimate the explosiveness of seemingly benign materials.

Non-Routine Operations – The Hidden Danger
Start-up, shutdown, cleaning, and regeneration cycles often fall outside standard assessments — yet they pose some of the highest risks.

Waste Systems – The Forgotten Fire Source
Poorly understood or unmanaged waste handling and disposal can introduce flammable atmospheres or reactive by-products.

Our expert reviews often reveal overlooked ignition sources, misclassified zones, or equipment mismatches that standard assessments miss.

Safety Systems – Reliance on unverified Safety Systems

In process safety, many systems require SIL (Safety Integrity Levels) verification, also usually requires ‘proof testing’ of the systems. Such systems may include ventilation failure alarms, temperature monitoring, fuels valves that close automatically on leak or fire detection and process failure alarms.

When to Review Your DSEAR Assessment: Aligning with Change and Risk

Reviews must be conducted at appropriate intervals, not just when "something seems wrong." The HSE's L138 guidance is clear: reassess when there is any significant change or on a routine, risk-based schedule.

Recommended Review Intervals

Risk Profile

High-risk site

Medium to low-risk site

After a significant change

Review Frequency

Every 1–2 years

Every 3–5 years

Immediately

Reviews can take the form of ‘audits (gap analysis) or, in some cases. Management Reviews as long as DSEAR/ATEX experts feed into the reviews.

What Counts as a "Significant Change"?

• New processes, materials, or equipment introduced
• Changes in material data (e.g. new supplier or altered particle size)
• Changes in quantities of flammables used or stored.
• Degradation of safety-critical equipment (EN60079-14 and SIL)
• Adjustments in SOPs, batch sizes, and process parameters
• Layout or ventilation changes (area classification)
• Updates to storage or handling methods
• Changes in number of people (consequences)

Pro Tip: Integrate DSEAR reviews into your Management of Change (MOC) policies. ExVeritas offers expert support in embedding DSEAR into MOC frameworks.

Why Regular DSEAR Reviews Matter

Routine assessments do more than tick compliance boxes — they proactively improve your safety posture and operational efficiency:

• Optimise Zoning – Prevent costly over-zoning by validating real risk profiles.
• Confirm the Basis of Safety – Ensure effective ignition sources are controlled, and explosion protection systems are correctly rated for new materials.
• Identify New Ignition Sources – Catch emerging hazards from changes in equipment use, safety systems, procedures, wear-and-tear or maintenance changes, etc.
• Strengthen Procedures – Align systems of work with current plant realities (e.g. ventilation, leak detection, continuity to earth, etc.)
• • Continuous Improvement – Feed findings into broader risk management and functional safety strategies.

  Routine checks consider issues that will not be considered in typical 60079-14/17 Inspections (such as CompEx, which tend to focus on ‘equipment’). A schedule should be made for other necessary inspections, such as ventilation effectiveness and removal of empty flammable storage containers.

  Pro Tip: Factors that affect Area Classification will have the greatest impact on overall safety. Preventing (with maintenance) and detecting leaks or housekeeping (for dust) should be considered regularly. 

   It is imperative that there is a management system in place that monitors significant factors that affect explosion safety. Equipment inspections will be part of this but are not sufficient on their own, and systems must be put in place to both identify and monitor less obvious aspects relating to the flammable material and containment such as separation, segregation and ventilation

   ExVeritas help organisations proactively manage fire and explosion risks through specialist ATEX and DSEAR assessments.

  As UKAS-accredited and EU ATEX Notified Bodies, ExVeritas combines technical depth with regulatory precision. We provide more than compliance — we deliver confidence.

  www.exveritas.com for a free initial consultation.

Artile written By Chirag Sheth CEng MIChemE,  

In explosive atmosphere environments across the oil and gas industry, reliable communication equipment that meets stringent safety standards is paramount. The newly introduced i.safe MOBILE IS-RSM3x.1 series of Remote Speaker Microphones (RSMs) sets a new benchmark for communication technology certified for Ex-Zone 1/21 classified areas.

The new RSM features two distinct models: the IS-RSM3A.1 wired version, which integrates with i.safe MOBILE devices featuring the 16-pin ISM interface, and the IS-RSM3B.1 Bluetooth® model, compatible with standard Bluetooth®enabled industrial equipment. Both units carry ATEX/IECEx certification essential for deployment where flammable gases, vapors, and combustible dust create potentially explosive atmospheres.

The technical architecture delivers exceptional audio performance with a powerful speaker capable of reaching 103 dB. Dual microphones enable intelligent passive noise cancellation, while an integrated Digital Signal Processor actively minimizes background noise in real-time, ensuring clear communication even in environments where industrial noise regularly exceeds 85 dB.

Field-Proven Application Scenarios

Maintenance technicians on offshore platforms benefit significantly from the Bluetooth® IS-RSM3B.1 model. Workers can secure their primary communication devices while maintaining continuous communication through the RSM attached to their PPE. During critical maintenance procedures, this configuration enables hands-free communication with control room personnel without compromising safety protocols or equipment integrity.

When conducting inspection rounds in processing units where potentially explosive vapors create Zone 1 environments, the programmable interface buttons allow for immediate Push-to-Talk functionality or emergency alerts without requiring glove removal. The superior noise cancellation technology ensures clear transmission even in proximity to high-noise equipment such as compressors and pumps, maintaining critical communication channels in challenging acoustic environments.

During petrochemical emergency scenarios, the programmable red button can be configured for immediate SOS activation, while the device's robust IP68 construction withstands exposure to harsh environmental conditions. The extended battery capacity ensures communication remains functional throughout prolonged emergency operations, providing critical coordination capabilities when they are most essential.

Engineered for Industrial Practicality

Weighing just 205 grams, the IS-RSM3x.1 features an ergonomic design with intuitive button placement for operation even with heavy-duty chemical-resistant gloves. The device includes a reinforced clip for secure attachment to safety clothing, while the exchangeable 2200 mAh battery offers extended operational life for long shifts in hazardous environments.

Additional connectivity options include an 8-pin ISM interface for connecting certified headsets within hazardous areas, while the NFC chip in the Bluetooth® version enables efficient pairing in field conditions.

Through implementation of these advanced communication systems, petrochemical operations can enhance both safety compliance and operational efficiency in Zone 1/21 classified areas where conventional communication technologies present unacceptable risk profiles.

www@isafe-mobile.com

If you are even asking yourself the question “should I be worried about explosive atmospheres (ATEX)” then the answer is most probably “yes”. The Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations (DSEAR) require employers to control the risks to safety from fire, explosions and substances corrosive to metals. This places the onus firmly on you!

It is well understood that equipment for use in more obvious hazardous locations such as flour mills, coal mines, petrochemical plants and fuel transfer facilities, needs to be certified “intrinsically safe”. However, hazardous locations also include places like water treatment plants, tunnels and underground passageways or any location where a build-up of naturally occurring flammable material (such as methane or dust) could occur.

Most people are familiar with the definitions of ATEX ‘Zones’. Put simply, Zone 0 means an explosive atmosphere is very likely and Zone 2 means it is unlikely, with Zone 1 being the “grey area” in between. It is easy enough to identify from its markings whether a particular piece of equipment is suitable for a particular Zone, e.g. Ex ia for Zone 0, Ex ib for Zone 1 and Ex ic for Zone 2. However, what is not so obvious is identifying which locations in your plant are in which Zones.

As if the issue of Zones wasn’t enough, there is also the consideration of which gases are likely to be encountered. For example, equipment marked as Group IIB must not be used in Zones with hydrogen or acetylene likely to be present. Those gases would require at least Group IIC certification.

Then there is also consideration of the equipment’s temperature classification, which specifies the maximum surface temperature that could arise due to a fault. For example, equipment coded T2 could potentially get hot enough to ignite gasoline! However, an equipment coding of T4 is generally considered acceptable, being safe for all gases apart from Carbon Disulfide, which requires T6.

The TPI 9085Ex features on-meter analysis for the detection of machinery faults such as unbalance, misalignment, looseness and bearing wear. With full colour OLED display and Bluetooth communications, the TPI 9085Ex also features colour coded alarms and zoomable on-screen vibration frequency plots with cursor readout. It can store lists (routes) of up to 1000 machines, each with up to 10 measurement points, with full waveform and frequency spectrum (FFT) capture. Uniquely, the TPI 9085Ex delivers high level functionality and capability, including instantaneous bearing temperature measurement, all at very low cost.

The included free-to-use VibTrend PC-based trending and reporting software features high-end benefits such as automatic email notification of alarms and report generation, to implement a full Condition Based Maintenance strategy.  Routes and readings can easily be transferred to/from the TPI 9085Ex via Bluetooth using a smart phone or tablet running the free TPI Bridge App. This allows service personnel to be sent routes and return readings, no matter where they are in the world. 

For more information please contact TPI Europe’s head office on +44 1293 530196 or take a look on the website at www.tpieurope.com or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Aberdeen-based JCE Energy, a specialist in off-grid power solutions, has supplied Aquaterra Energy, a leader in global offshore energy engineering solutions, with a bespoke modular solar power system for a supermajor’s offshore platform in Angola.

The autonomously powered, unmanned Sea Swift production platform operates entirely on renewable energy, supporting offshore operations while enabling the energy transition. This approach enhances long-term viability and adaptability in an evolving energy landscape.

Under a £1.5 million contract, JCE Energy designed, manufactured and supplied the bespoke system which incorporates over 100 high-efficiency solar panels suitable for the challenging offshore conditions. It has been engineered to maximise energy capture in the maritime environment, where space is at a premium and resilience against saltwater corrosion and storm conditions is paramount.

The project was delivered by a team of over 50 skilled professionals, comprising JCE’s in-house engineers and project managers, supported by contracted electrical fitters and additional mechanical specialists. Approximately 90% of the system’s design, manufacturing, and module assembly was completed at JCE Energy’s Aberdeen headquarters, with additional fabrication work carried out at their Plymouth facility.

The modular design allows for scalability, ensuring the system can be expanded to meet future energy needs without extensive redesign or disruption to platform operations. Coupled with advanced energy storage solutions, the system guarantees a reliable power supply, even during periods of low sunlight. By reducing reliance on diesel generators, it reduces C02 emissions by at least 90%. The long-term operating expenditure is expected to be significantly reduced, leading to substantial cost savings of around £5,900,000 over the 30-year lifespan of the platform.

Stewart Maxwell, Technical Director of Aquaterra Energy said “As operators look to reduce their carbon footprint while managing offshore platform costs, we’ve ensured that Sea Swift is ready by reimagining topside power sources. With JCE Energy’s support, we successfully delivered a 100% autonomously-powered platform using solar energy, eliminating the need for traditional fuel sources.”

Marco Gheza, General Manager of JCE Energy, commented: “Our solar power package for the project stands as a testament to the evolving energy sector’s potential to balance operational needs with environmental and social responsibilities. This project not only demonstrates our engineering expertise but also reinforces our commitment to helping the energy sector transition to more sustainable practices.”

www.jceenergy.com.

Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) are transforming our energy landscape – and REMBE is pushing the boundaries of their protection. No two BESS are identical, and each requires its own tailored approach. Drawing on over 50 years of explosion protection expertise, we are leading the way in developing protection solutions that balance safety requirements with commercial objectives. Our integrated approach leverages multiple layers of safety, combining options for early detection and combustible concentration reduction with optimized deflagration vents to safeguard next-generation BESS installations.

Fig. 1: Energy Storage System protected by REMBE

REMBE offers a comprehensive range of products that help safeguard BESS against explosions. Three distinct product series enable optimal solutions for any BESS installation, each bringing unique advantages to your project.

Fig. 2: The BESS Core Venting Series

The BESS Core Venting Series delivers efficient roof venting through our proven EGV products. Engineering excellence meets customization – each product is precisely tailored to customer specifications, from size and burst pressure to insulation materials and properties. This series offers proven protection with attractive volume pricing.

Fig. 3: The BESS Smart Venting Series

Innovation takes center stage in the BESS Smart Venting Series with BESS.TGV, our revolutionary deflagration vent for BESS enclosure sides. The patented TargoVent principle deflects explosion effects upward to a safe location. By moving explosion protection from roof to container sides, BESS.TGV eliminates concerns about snow loads and hail impact while freeing up valuable roof space. This creates new possibilities for BESS configuration, such as vertically stacked installations. With a uniquely slim profile, BESS.TGV seamlessly integrates into any BESS enclosure.

 
Fig. 4: The BESS Premium Venting Series

The BESS Premium Venting Series represents our latest breakthrough in explosion protection. As pioneers of flameless venting technology, REMBE has developed BESS.Q.Vent – the first flameless vent specifically engineered for BESS applications. By eliminating external flames and minimizing thermal and pressure effects, BESS.Q.Vent enables safe installation of BESS in indoor locations and other sensitive environments.

Enhancing this comprehensive protection portfolio, advanced detection systems provide an extra layer of safety. Our Hotspot and GSME sensors detect critical faults before they escalate: Hotspot through precise thermal monitoring, and GSME through multi-gas detection. This early warning capability enables early intervention before potential issues develop into thermal runaway events, completing our integrated approach to BESS safety.

Beyond our products, REMBE is your global consulting and engineering partner throughout your entire project. Our explosion protection experts and external engineering partners work closely with you to determine the optimal safety solution for your specific requirements.

www.rembe.de